On Nov. 12, 50 stores across Canada, including several in Toronto, will take part in educating the public about boutique toy stores and all that they have to offer.
Participating stores will be holding activities including crafts and scavenger hunts as well as prizes and giveaways to celebrate the day.
“There are 50-plus stores that are members of NETS [Neighbourhood Toy Stores of Canada] so we felt it was time for us to do something to give back to our customers ... who only shop at independent stores,” said Patti Tagart, president of NETS.
Promoting local shopping as a means to get better service, help the environment, as well provide community support is another aspect that NETS is trying to get across.
“Our goal is to have more people realize that shopping at an independent toy store is not a scary experience–once people get in the store and see the selection we have and that our prices are competitive, they are pleasantly surprised,” said Tagart.
Although there is no specific criteria around what sort of toys are sold at a local toy store, they do try to bring a different approach to children toys.
“We look for things that are unique, that you are not going to find in the mass market ... and are built with high standards and quality in mind,” Tagart said.
Activities to be held Saturday at participating local toy stores vary from store to store but could include “a tea party with Cinderella,” “crafts with Elmo and Dora,” and face-painting, to name a few.
Many stores are also donating to local charities and work with other community programs to promote a healthy community.
The American counterpart of NETS, the American Speciality Toy Retailing Association, will also be celebrating this weekend with similar events across the U.S.
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