Oct 23 2011

Magical Hocus Pocus

Magical Halloween Alternatives to Sugary Treats

by: The Toy Box

Halloween is just around the corner!  Pumpkins, costumes, treats and maybe a trick or two are on the minds of families everywhere.  

So let’s talk about ‘tricks’ and ‘treats’ that aren’t loaded with sugar! The kids will say ‘boo’ and think we’re quite ‘batty’ but as parents we think you’ll appreciate some alternative thinking.

Oct 12 2011

My Favourite Plan for Imaginative Play

Enviro-Friendly Toys Get A+

by: The Toy Box

I have owned my own toy store for 25 years. During those years I have bought and sold thousands of wonderful toys. I was recently asked if I could name one toy manufacturer that has stood out as a step above the rest. My answer came quickly and without hesitation: PlanToys of Thailand.

Sep 26 2011

Educational Birthday Toys

Some Toys for Boys to Engage the Imagination

by: The Toy Box

My son's birthday is one week away and I am once again left pondering what to get him.  At seven years-old all he wants are video games. But I think it is important to get him something educational.  He is now at the age where he wants to know how things work, so maybe an Elenco Snap Circuit set is the answer.

Sep 11 2011

Toys for Developing Gross Motor Skills

Toy Options for Encouraging Physical Activity

by: The Toy Box

Where do they get their energy from?

Running, crawling, jumping and other activities which require the larger movement of muscles in their arms, legs, feet, or their entire body, are all part of gross motor skills development. As a parent, encouraging physical activity is an essential part of your child’s development.

Sep 4 2011

A Low-Tech Solution for Indoor Play

Kids Still Attracted to Magnetic Toys & Games

by: The Toy Box

Aug 29 2011

Is it a Bird? Is it a Plane! No! It is a Waboba Ball!

Check Out the Latest in Wacky Water Play

by: The Toy Box

Summer may be winding down but there's still plenty of warm days left.  Let me tell you about the latest craze in this neck of the woods. It’s great for summer play in lakes and pools and great for the beach on your next, dare I say it, winter (brrr!) vacation.

All summer long we’ve had people come into the store asking about "that ball”, the one that bounces on water!

Aug 7 2011

Gold Star Winning Toys & Games

Top of The Class' Toys Offer 'Exceptional Play Value

by: The Toy Box

It’s kind of odd that we at Neighbourhood Toy Stores of Canada (NETS) put out our ‘top ten’ toy list at the beginning of August, but that’s the way we roll!

And our ‘top ten’ list is a little different from other such lists. It’s not so much about the ‘latest and greatest’; it’s more about the ‘tried and true’.

Aug 1 2011

Introducing our 'Toy Box' Blog

Toy-riffic' Tips on Toy & Games for All Ages & Stages

by: The Toy Box

When YummyMummyClub.ca asked us, “Why not have Neighbourhood Toy Store owners share their expertise with our Yummy Mummies?  We thought about that for a nano second and replied, “What a fabulous idea!”

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The Face, The Voice, The Blog!

Ever wonder what to buy a 7 year old boy for his birthday or which playmat will stimulate your baby's mind long enough to grab a cup of coffee?

Neighbourhood Toy Stores of Canada is a network of specialty toy retailers and their suppliers working together to provide a superior source of toys within our communities. NETS stores are owned and staffed by people, usually parents themselves, who are passionate about showcasing unique, interesting and quality-made toys.

And now they're here to help you with your toy buying questions!  The NETS members from across Canada are going to review toys, provide tips for choosing toys at every age and stage, make buying presents less baffling and give you the inside scoop on what's hot and what's not.

You'll have the tools you need to buy the toys that'll get the most bang for your buck.  Happy Shopping!

For all the latest member news go to Neighbourhood Toy Stores Facebook Page.

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