Apr 27, 2011

Looking For Kids Toys? Shop LocallyBy Sarah FrankSanRamon.Patch.com

Three local toy stores make shopping easier for parents. They offer great service, such as free gift wrapping, and a huge array of items your kids can play with while you shop.

Talk about a distraction-free shopping trip. I literally have to beg my three boys to leave after spending more than an hour at each of these cool stores on any given shopping trip.

The Golden Apple Learning Store in Pleasanton is all about enhancing learning for teachers and parents, but also has plenty of toys that engage young minds and spark creative thinking.

The staff has firsthand knowledge about the goods on the shelves and so will your child before you make a purchase.

“We’re ‘Try before you buy,’ ” says store owner John MacDougall.

Workers are happy to open boxes so customers are sure they’re getting exactly what they want. Now that’s something you cannot find at larger stores.

While you browse, your child can play at the train table, watch marbles shoot down “marble run,” play “Double Shutter” or “Chickyboom,” test out new outdoor games and so much more.

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