Neighborhood Toy Store Day

Nationwide Event Encourages Families to Support the Local Toy Stores they Love

As a child, there’s nothing quite as exciting as a trip to the neighborhood toy store. Gazing with wonder at the aisles of exciting choices… holding your new toy for the very first time… anticipating the moment when you finally take your new gifts home.

On Saturday, November 8, The Toy Box will join hundreds of locally owned stores across the country to celebrate the fifth annual Neighborhood Toy Store Day, coordinated by the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) to help families discover the joy of shopping at their local, independently-owned toy store this holiday season and beyond.

“When you shop at an independent toy store, you are entering a universe of play possibilities,” explains Kathleen McHugh, President of the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA). “Neighborhood Toy Store Day is about celebrating the role the local store plays in the community. We are highlighting the expertise your local store has in selecting just the right innovative, exclusive and engaging toy to help your child grow and learn through play.”

As part of the festivities, The Toy Box will offer Free Cookies, prizes, surprise discount at register. Independent toy stores can even help you find top toys for the children on your list this holiday season with help from ASTRA’s 2014 Best Toys for Kids list. Selected by a pool of dozens of local and independent toy retailers from across the country, this year’s list honors the new and improved toys that promote open-ended or creative play and incorporate innovative design features.

Buechner, owner of The Toy Box explained, “With our expert understanding of how kids play, ASTRA members have created a list of toys that deliver the highest value, inviting imaginative discovery and encouraging creative thinking.”

And consumers can be confident that more of the dollars spent in local, independently-owned stores, stay in the community—25% percent more in contrast with national chains, according to the 3/50 Project. Resident business owners pour more money and energy back into the community in the form of everything from tax dollars to charity donations to participating in local initiatives through civic associations and area chambers of commerce.

“By shopping locally, consumers will find great toys while supporting vibrant communities and sustainable economic development. Visit your neighborhood toy store and you may bring home more than just the perfect gift, you’ll share the spirit of the season.”

For more information, visit www.yourneighborhoodtoystore.org.

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