In a world filled with screens and digital distractions, finding ways to engage children in meaningful and imaginative play has become increasingly important. Enter Tonies – a revolutionary audio toy that combines storytelling with interactive play, captivating the hearts and minds of children and parents alike. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the enchanting world of Tonies and discover why they’re becoming a must-have for families around the globe.
Tonies are small, hand-painted figures that represent beloved characters from classic stories, fairy tales, and popular children's literature. Each Tonie character is paired with an audio story or content, stored on a magnetic audio cube known as the Toniebox. When placed on the Toniebox, the Tonie character magically unlocks the audio content, allowing children to listen to their favorite stories with a simple tap.
At the heart of Tonies lies the magic of storytelling. From timeless classics like "Courdory" and "Rapunzel" to contemporary favorites like "The Gruffalo" and "Laurie Berkner Band" Tonies offer a vast library of stories that inspire imagination and creativity in children. By combining captivating narratives with interactive play, Tonies create immersive storytelling experiences that transport children to fantastical worlds filled with adventure and wonder.
Tonies encourage active engagement and participation through interactive play. Children have the freedom to choose which stories they want to listen to simply by swapping out different Tonie characters on the Toniebox. They can also fast-forward, rewind, or pause the story at any time, giving them control over their listening experience. Additionally, Tonies offer opportunities for creative play as children act out scenes from their favorite stories using the Tonie characters, fostering imaginative storytelling and role-playing skills.
Tonies promote meaningful connections and quality time between children and their families. Whether it's listening to bedtime stories together, reenacting scenes from beloved tales, or embarking on imaginary adventures, Tonies create opportunities for shared experiences and bonding moments that strengthen familial relationships. By fostering communication, empathy, and shared laughter, Tonies help create lasting memories that families will cherish for years to come.
Beyond entertainment, Tonies offer numerous educational benefits for children. Listening to stories helps develop language and literacy skills, expands vocabulary, and enhances comprehension. Additionally, exposure to a diverse range of stories and characters fosters empathy, cultural awareness, and appreciation for different perspectives. With Tonies, learning becomes a joyful and immersive experience that sparks curiosity and ignites a lifelong love of storytelling.
In a world where imagination is often overshadowed by screens and technology, Tonies offer a refreshing alternative that celebrates the magic of storytelling and the power of imaginative play. From fostering creativity and critical thinking to promoting family bonding and educational development, Tonies enrich the lives of children in countless ways. As we embrace the enchanting world of Tonies, let us rediscover the joy of storytelling and embark on adventures limited only by our imagination.
]]>Longevity: Unlike candies that are consumed in moments, toys have a lasting appeal. They can be enjoyed long after Easter Sunday, providing hours of entertainment and imaginative play. From building blocks to plush toys, the joy they bring lasts well beyond the initial excitement.
Health Consciousness: With increasing awareness about health and nutrition, many parents are opting for alternatives to sugary treats. Toys offer a healthier option, devoid of the sugar rush and subsequent crash that often accompanies candy consumption. By prioritizing toys over candy, Easter baskets can promote a balance between fun and wellness.
Educational Value: Toys have the potential to be not just entertaining but also educational. From puzzles that enhance problem-solving skills to books that foster a love for reading, Easter baskets filled with toys can encourage learning and development in children. This shift from mere indulgence to meaningful engagement reflects a growing emphasis on holistic child development.
Inclusive Appeal: While candies may cater to a specific taste, toys have a universal appeal. Regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences, toys can delight children of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it’s a classic teddy bear or a new action figure, the joy of receiving a toy transcends individual preferences, fostering a sense of inclusivity and joyous celebration.
Memorable Experiences: The gifts we receive as children often hold a special place in our memories. Unlike candies that are quickly forgotten, toys can create lasting memories and cherished moments. A well-chosen toy in an Easter basket can spark joy and excitement, leaving a lasting impression that resonates far beyond the holiday itself.
Environmental Considerations: In an era where environmental consciousness is increasingly important, opting for toys over candies aligns with sustainable practices. Many toys are designed to be reusable, durable, and eco-friendly, reducing the environmental impact compared to single-use candy wrappers. By choosing toys, Easter celebrations can be both delightful and environmentally responsible.
In conclusion, while candies have their place in Easter traditions, the rise of toys in Easter baskets signals a shift towards more meaningful and enriching experiences. From promoting health-conscious choices to fostering inclusive celebrations, toys offer a plethora of benefits that extend far beyond the holiday season. This Easter, consider embracing the joy of toys and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
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Book your holiday session during one of our three sessions:
Start your holiday experience where the team will greet your group and invite the kiddos to create a Christmas list to give to Santa. Each child will be invited to browse the store for inspiration for the perfect Christmas toy. The anticipation builds as you await your turn to meet the jolly man himself.
Once your session begins, you'll be ushered to the back room to meet the big man himself. As you step into our holiday wonderland, you'll instantly be transported into a magical setting filled with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
During your special 20-minute experience, your family will have the incredible opportunity to interact with Santa Claus. Watch your children's faces light up with excitement as they share their holiday wishes and hear Santa's hearty laughter in response. It's a moment that captures the true essence of the season.
Santa is not just about gifts; he's also a master storyteller. Gather around as Santa regales you with an enchanting reading of The Night Before Christmas. Sing along to beloved holiday songs, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
We believe in the power of capturing precious moments. During your visit, feel free to bring your camera and take as many photos as you'd like. From candid shots to a family portrait with Santa, these pictures will become treasured keepsakes that you can share and reminisce about for generations. They are also great for the family holiday card.
To add to the holiday magic, each ticket includes a $25 gift card to Argyle Toys. After your visit, take a trip to Argyle Toys and let your little ones choose their favorite toys or help fulfill their Christmas list making their holiday dreams come true. It's a wonderful way to extend the excitement of the Santa experience and continue the joyous celebration.
The details:
In addition to your ticket, you can add enhancements including a custom cup filled with holiday goodies OR a wrapped gift ready for Santa to give to your child. We'd love to add to your family's experience. Let our team know at argyletoys@gmail.com.
This holiday season, make memories that will warm your heart for a lifetime. Join us at Argyle Toys for an immersive Santa Meet & Greet that will transport you to a world of enchantment, laughter, and holiday cheer. Share in the magic of Christmas as you meet Santa, enjoy storytelling, and sing along to festive tunes. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to create cherished memories with your loved ones. Book your tickets today and let the magic unfold!
]]>In today's digital age, it's becoming increasingly common for children to spend a significant amount of time engaged with electronic devices. While technology certainly has its benefits, it is essential for parents to recognize the importance of non-electronic play for their children, especially those aged 8 and older. Non-electronic play offers a wealth of developmental advantages, allowing kids to explore their creativity, enhance social skills, promote physical activity, and foster a well-rounded and balanced childhood. In this blog post, we will delve into the compelling reasons why non-electronic play should be an integral part of your child's life.
Let’s start with stimulating imagination and creativity. Oftentimes parents come into the shop and believe their child is beyond this stage. That said, there are several options for non-electronic play that offers children the opportunity to tap into their imaginations and develop their creativity. Simple toys, building blocks, art supplies, and role-playing activities encourage kids to think independently, problem-solve, and create their own narratives. These activities allow children to express themselves freely, fostering a sense of self-confidence and unleashing their boundless potential.
We all know that COVID had a big impact on our children’s social skills. Rebuilding these skills can be a challenge when a child is attached to technology. Non-electronic play often involves interaction with others, which promotes the development of crucial social skills. Engaging in group games, board games, or sports helps children learn how to communicate, cooperate, negotiate, and resolve conflicts. These skills are vital for their future interpersonal relationships and can contribute to their emotional intelligence.
Try to encourage physical activity as an option. Many electronic devices and games promote sedentary behavior, leading to a more inactive lifestyle. Non-electronic play, on the other hand, encourages physical activity, promoting healthy habits and a strong foundation for overall well-being. Outdoor activities, sports, and active play improve motor skills, coordination, and strength. Additionally, physical play helps children release pent-up energy, reducing stress levels and enhancing their overall mood.
Non-electronic play stimulates cognitive development in various ways. Puzzles, memory games, and strategy-based board games enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Hands-on activities also improve hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and fine motor skills. These cognitive abilities are essential for academic success and overall cognitive growth.
Fostering family bonding and child development is really at the heart of how we believe toys should engage your child. Non-electronic play provides an excellent opportunity for families to bond and spend quality time together. Engaging in activities such as board game nights, gardening, cooking, or crafting allows for meaningful interactions, shared laughter, and the creation of lasting memories. These shared experiences strengthen the parent-child relationship and build a foundation of trust and connection.
Promoting mental health and well-being can be a challenge for all of us as we navigate this new climate. While technology has its merits, excessive screen time has been linked to various issues, including increased stress, anxiety, and decreased sleep quality in children. Non-electronic play offers a break from the constant digital stimulation, providing a chance for children to relax, recharge, and focus on the present moment. Outdoor play, in particular, has been associated with improved mental health, reduced stress levels, and increased overall happiness.
In a world increasingly dominated by electronic devices, it is crucial for parents to prioritize non-electronic play in their children's lives. By encouraging non-electronic play, parents can support their child's creativity, social skills, physical well-being, and cognitive development. Limiting screen time and offering alternative play options can foster a balanced childhood and create a solid foundation for their future success and happiness. So let's rediscover the joy of non-electronic play and witness our children thrive in a world full of imagination and possibilities. Remember, however you decide to engage your child on a non-electronic device is great and right for you. We are all doing our best and it is great to have the options available.
]]>Safety as a Primary Concern: One of the foremost considerations when determining age recommendations on toys is safety. Different age groups have varying physical and cognitive abilities, and toys must align with these capabilities to ensure a child's well-being. For example, toys for infants and toddlers must be free from small parts that could pose choking hazards. Age labels also help parents identify toys that are developmentally appropriate and safe for their children.
Cognitive Development and Skill Acquisition: Toys can aid children in developing crucial cognitive skills such as problem-solving, logical thinking, and hand-eye coordination. Age recommendations often take into account a child's cognitive abilities and the complexity of a toy's design. For instance, puzzles or building blocks may have age recommendations that correspond to the level of challenge they offer. Toys that encourage language development or enhance numerical skills are also tailored to specific age ranges, aligning with a child's cognitive milestones.
Emotional and Social Development: Toys can contribute significantly to a child's emotional and social development, helping them explore their feelings, practice empathy, and develop social interaction skills. Dolls, action figures, and board games are often designed with age-specific scenarios and social dynamics in mind. By matching toy features and themes to appropriate age groups, toy manufacturers aim to support healthy emotional growth and encourage positive social interactions among children.
Complexity and Manipulative Abilities: The complexity of toy designs and the level of fine motor skills required for play are important factors considered when determining age recommendations. Younger children may need toys with larger, simpler parts that are easy to grasp and manipulate. As children grow, their dexterity and fine motor skills improve, allowing them to engage with toys featuring smaller parts or more intricate mechanisms. Age labeling helps parents select toys that match their child's developing motor skills, promoting both enjoyment and skill refinement.
Developmental Milestones: Child development is a dynamic process, and different skills emerge at different ages. Age recommendations on toys often align with the developmental milestones that children typically achieve during a given age range. These milestones can include physical, cognitive, social, and emotional aspects. Manufacturers consult child development experts, conduct research, and consider established norms to ensure their toys are suitable for specific age groups.
Age recommendations on toy packaging serve as valuable guidance for parents, caregivers, and gift-givers, helping them select toys that match a child's abilities and developmental stage. Safety concerns, cognitive development, emotional and social growth, manipulative abilities, and developmental milestones are all significant factors considered when determining age labeling. By adhering to these guidelines, toy manufacturers contribute to the well-being and optimal growth of children, ensuring a positive play experience that nurtures their learning and development.
]]>Browse our selection of gardening items selected to engage children of all ages.
Gardening is a beautiful journey for children, offering a multitude of benefits for their physical, mental, and emotional development. Through hands-on experiences in the garden, children gain valuable life skills, a deeper connection with nature, and an appreciation for the environment. So, grab a shovel, gather some seeds, and embark on this green adventure with your little ones. Watch as their curiosity and love for the natural world blossom along with their garden. Happy gardening!
]]>What is Independent Play?
Independent play refers to a child's ability to play on their own without adult guidance or direction. This type of play is essential for a child's development as it encourages imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills. It also helps children to become self-sufficient and independent, which is a critical skill they will need throughout their lives.
Benefits of Independent Play
Enhances Creativity and Imagination: When a child engages in independent play, they have the freedom to explore their imaginations and come up with their own ideas. This encourages them to be creative and think outside of the box.
Builds Self-Confidence: Independent play allows children to make decisions on their own, which helps to build their self-confidence. They learn to trust themselves and their abilities, which is an important skill that will help them in the future.
Improves Problem-Solving Skills: When a child engages in independent play, they are forced to solve problems on their own. This helps to develop their problem-solving skills and teaches them to be resourceful.
Develops Self-Sufficiency: Independent play helps children to become self-sufficient and independent. They learn to entertain themselves and don't rely on adults to provide constant entertainment.
Encourages Exploration: Independent play allows children to explore their environment and learn about the world around them. They can discover new things and learn through trial and error.
In addition to your child’s development, independent play gives moms or care-givers some space to breathe and maybe even have a semi-hot cup of coffee.Sit down and watch your child’s imagination and independence grow.
Toys that Inspire Independent Play
Creating the right environment for independent play means making sure your child has a safe and stimulating environment to play in. Provide toys and materials that encourage creativity and imagination. Here is a short list of what experts see as the best options to promote independent play:
Remember, the key is to provide a variety of materials and toys that allow children to explore and create independently, and to encourage them to use their imaginations and come up with their own ideas.
How to Encourage Independent Play
Set Aside Time for Independent Play: Set aside a specific time each day for independent play. This can be a designated playtime where your child knows they are expected to play independently.
Avoid Constant Stimulation: Avoid constantly stimulating your child with screens or activities. Allow them to have downtime to explore their own imaginations and interests.
Start Small: If your child is not used to independent play, start small by setting a timer for a few minutes each day and gradually increasing the time.
Be Available: While your child is engaged in independent play, make sure you are still available if they need you. This helps to build their confidence and allows them to feel secure.
In conclusion, independent play is a crucial skill for children to develop. It enhances creativity, problem-solving skills, and self-sufficiency. As a parent, it's important to encourage and foster this skill in your child by providing the right environment, setting aside time for independent play, avoiding constant stimulation, starting small, and being available when needed. By doing so, you will help your child develop important life skills and foster a love of learning and exploration.
]]>What Are Montessori-style Toys?
Montessori-style toys differ from traditional toys in several ways. They are usually made from natural materials like wood or cloth, rather than plastic. They also tend to be simpler in design, with a focus on open-ended play that allows children to use their imaginations and creativity. Some examples of Montessori-style toys include wooden blocks, nesting dolls, sensory bins, and puzzles.
The Benefits of Montessori-style Toys
Montessori-style toys offer many benefits for young children. They can help develop fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity. By encouraging open-ended play, these toys also foster a love of learning and curiosity in children. Additionally, they can help children develop independence and self-confidence, as they are free to explore and experiment at their own pace.
Choosing Montessori-style Toys for Your Child
When choosing Montessori-style toys for your child, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider your child's age and interests. Look for toys that are appropriate for their developmental stage and that match their current interests and abilities. For example, a young toddler might enjoy playing with nesting cups, while an older child might prefer a set of wooden blocks.
It's also a good idea to choose toys that can be used in a variety of ways. For example, a set of wooden blocks can be used to build towers, houses, and other structures, providing endless possibilities for open-ended play. And don't forget to rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh and interesting for your child.
Conclusion
Montessori-style toys can be a valuable addition to your child's playtime. By encouraging hands-on learning and open-ended play, these toys can help your child develop a range of skills and interests, as well as a love of learning and curiosity about the world around them. So why not consider incorporating some Montessori-style toys into your child's playtime today?
]]>To help make sure every child gets a toy, we are:
All donations MUST be made before December 16th to ensure there is enough time to distribute toys to all of the hosptials. All toys will go to organizations throughout Long Island including Cohen Children’s Medical Center, Stony Brook University Hospital, Winthrop Hospital, the Ronald McDonald House, the John Theissen Foundation, and Angela’s House.
Can't make it to the toy store? You can drop the toys off at the Councilman's office at Town Hall or call us at 631-314-4553. We will make it work!
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Supporting small doesn’t always mean spending millions in stores - although we’d absolutely love that - check out our lineup if you’re thinking about it ;). As we approach the holiday season, let’s open up the discussion around what YOU can do to help small businesses run by your neighbors, friends, family, PTA members, old coworkers…the list goes on and on.
Helping small businesses THRIVE this holiday season without pulling out your wallet isn't as hard as you think:
These are just a few things you can do to help the little guys continue to create a magical experience for shoppers. How do you support your favorite small businesses?
]]>There are certain toys that withstand the test of time and make some of the best Hanukkah and Christmas gifts. These are the toys that will be a part of your child’s memories and playroom for years to come. Knowing this, choosing the right one is paramount and we are here to help.
There are a couple of things that we look for when choosing the classic holiday gifts:
More often than not these holiday toys should be purchased early. This will allow for friends and family to build off of it and make sure you secure one because supply chain is still a hot phrase. By shopping early, you also get to be selective about which brand, product and style works best for you. And so let’s take a tour of the best holiday gifts that are your “big gifts” for 2022:
Note we like to arrange things by age. This is by no means written in stone. If you think the toy is appropriate for your child who’s older or younger - go for it! You know the kiddos best!
This post is 1 in on “Best of Holiday Gifts 2022” series. Recommendations are based on best sellers, research, and category recommendations. Let us know what you think the best classic holiday gifts are this season.
]]>This is something we hear often from the parents that are stretched too far, don’t have time, are juggling work and quarantined kids and so much more. This puts parents and gift givers in a bit of a predicament. What do you choose to keep a smile on your kiddos face but also maintain your sanity?
]]>This is something we hear often from the parents that are stretched too far, don’t have time, are juggling work and quarantined kids and so much more. This puts parents and gift givers in a bit of a predicament. What do you choose to keep a smile on your kiddos face but also maintain your sanity?
First thing’s first - don’t beat yourself up. You can’t be a great parent unless your cup is full. Give your kids the time and space to grow while you’re giving yourself the time for you. The best part? Independent play is IMPORTANT for every child’s growth and development. So your need for space and separation from play is actually a win-win! In fact, Sue from “Reaching For Montessori” states how important independent play is for 1 - the growth of creativity and imagination, 2- helps social independence, 3- calms children, 4- helps problem-solving and 5 - decreases play dependence on adults.
Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s discuss the different options.
There are several ways to encourage self-directed play. Start by setting yourself up for success. Gather the materials and supplies that you think your child will need to stay interested in the activity. This could be as simple as all of the pieces to a puzzle or as complex as the items to set up a car wash. By preparing up front, you will be able to maximize your time while the child is occupied as well as set them up to build confidence.
Once they are set up, step back and let them take the lead. This can be hard as the child may experience challenges and you want to help or the child is requesting you to intervene. Do your best to let them lead and build the confidence in themselves to have some fun.
Avital Schrieber Levy from Family Education says “If you are constantly hovering and watching that they don’t bump their head or play with a plug, you will be interrupting their play and not allowing them into the flow of play. This will also allow you to go put in a load of laundry or take a shower, once they are immersed in play, without worrying (although best to always be within earshot).”
Next let them have fun! If it lasts 5 minutes, great! Maybe the next time it will be 10 or maybe even 30. The chart below is helpful when setting yourself up with realistic goals for independent play:
Now that we know the importance of creating the setting, it’s important to choose the materials and activity. Here are some easy suggestions for promoting independent play:
These are just a few options. How do you set your kids up for independent play?
]]>One of the keys to selecting a toy gift for an older child is making sure that they don’t think it is too “baby-ish” for them. Children in this age want to make sure they are being recognized as a “bigger kid”. Scholastic Parents states that “One component of social and emotional growth in 8- to 10-year olds is their desire for increased independence from parents and siblings, and their increased desire to be seen as intelligent and knowledgeable.” Finding toys and games that support this desire, can increase self esteem and promote growth in a child. Scholastic Parents recommends play where “interactions are often defined by elaborate fantasy play, interactive games, rotating leaders, and cooperative goal-setting where participants work collaboratively toward a shared outcome.”
With this understanding as well as the importance of finding something that matches that individual's interests (like the 4-7 year old Gift Guide), this gift guide will take you through our team’s top picks in a variety of categories.
Board Games:
Science:
Crafting:
Books:
Outdoor & Adventure:
Have younger children and wondering what to get?
]]>Oftentimes we speak with shoppers who are looking for a toy featuring a specific character or something specific to a boy or girl. Rather than starting there, we like to dig into their specific interests. For example, if they like mickey - they will like anything with him on it but they will probably pass it up for something they actually like playing with very quickly. Once you identify the personality you’re shopping for, it is easy to apply the perfect style.
Rather than focus on gender or one specific age, I am going to break this holiday shopping guide into categories based on a child's interest and personality. Within each category you’ll find toys that range in price and are age appropriate for 4-7 year old children.
Let’s start with the outdoor adventurer. These are the children that love to play actively, be outside whenever they can and really thrive when they are on the move.
Crafters come in all ages, shapes, sizes and colors. Keeping they kids busy with something they have fun with AND they get to enjoy what they made are some of my favorite toys. These are some of my favorites across the board!
Future scientists are always looking for new ways to keep busy, learn and most of all have fun. There are a variety of options whether they are scratching the surface or are elbows deep in experiments. I personally love this section because it allows children to learn while having fun.
The pretend play masters can build their own world on their own but love to have the toys to help bring their world to life. All of these options add to your child’s imagination giving them the ability to build on their already impressive play.
The builder and architects are the kids that love to tinker. They see a box and want to turn it into a building. All of these toys are designed to inspire building as well as invite them to create something they’ll love to play with after all is said and done.
What interests are you buying for this year?
]]>This guide will focus specifically on children ages newborn to three years old with interests that vary and prices that range so there is something for everyone. This guide will specifically focus on toys with limited to no need for batteries.
Let’s start with the little ones: Newborn-1 year old.
$75-$150 Options:
$20-$50 Options:
Next up are the 2 and 3 year old children:
This age is a bit tricky in that they are starting to explore toys that are probably good for a 3+ BUT they often include little parts that could pose a choking hazard. When purchasing a toy for a 2 and 3 year old, be sure to look at the pieces and know where your child is developmentally. If they are an advanced 2 year old OR you will provide monitored play, toys for 3+ could be better suited. As a result, I have grouped these ages together.
$75 and up options:
$20-$50 Options:
None of these got you excited? Browse our entire catalog online here or head into the store and we can walk through different options.
The focus on the five senses starts from the very beginning for many children. Learning all about sight, touch, taste, hearing and smelling help build a foundation for the world in which they live. In addition to the five senses, some argue that body awareness and balance are also a part of this foundation of a person’s senses. Whether you believe this or not - these elements are core in a child trusting their environment and being able to distinguish between things.
Sensory play is defined as any activity or toy that helps engage and stimulate a child's five core senses. Sensory play is used to help introduce new items and experiences to a child as well as help them get more comfortable in their environment. For example, spaghetti can be a challenging food due to the wet or slimy texture. Oftentimes, sensory play with similar items is used to help introduce similar textures. This should help create a positive association with the item rather than the original adverse reaction.
Toys (as well as normal household items) can be used to introduce a child to the different senses. Parents can also then learn about what stimulates them, what they prefer and how to introduce them to new items. Play can involve something as simple as different texture cloths all the way through something visually stimulating like a magnetic kinetic galaxy.
Sensory play can also promote memory, coordination, visual motor skills, creativity, fine motor skills and more. The key is to find different items that will teach your child about the world we live in and help them identify preferences as well as growth as they move into new senses.
In addition to items from your home, you can find an entire section of sensory items for kids of all ages. Here are some of our team’s favorites:
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Living on Long Island we are no stranger to the devastation that a hurricane can bring to our community. After Sandy it took weeks to get the power back and years to rebuild the community. With these memories and a heavy heart, Argyle Toys wants to do their part to help the residents of Louisiana and Mississippi rebuild.
Starting August 31st through September 10th, Argyle Toys is dedicated to raising funds for Hurricane Ida relief. In speaking to different local charities, it has been made clear that money is the most effective way to reach the families as they don’t have the resources to distribute blankets, diapers, etc. We are setting a goal of $1000 that will go directly to the Hurricane Ida Relief Fund with the United Way of Southeast Louisiana. If we reach the $1000 goal by September 10th, Argyle Toys will donate an additional $500.
How to Donate:
Ida dropped over 10 inches of rain over 48 hours as the category 4 storm pulled onto land and stalled. At least two areas have reported over a foot and a half of rainfall during this time. The power grid in these areas are shattered as a result of the 150 mile an hour winds. Over a million people are without power and they are calling for weeks before power is restored. First responders are still going home to home to check for survivors.
United Way of Southeast Louisiana is here before, during, and after disasters. When a disaster strikes, your gift helps families get back in their homes, rebuild schools and businesses, and give our vulnerable neighbors the care they need. United Way works with local organizations to thoughtfully build strategies to create resilient communities.
All proceeds to the Hurricane Ida Relief Fund, in partnership with WWL-TV CHANNEL 4, will support immediate relief efforts and long-term rebuilding and community grants to partner organizations providing direct services to assist with disaster recovery.
]]>So what's next for a mom of two, during a pandemic, that's has a short break in her resume. What makes sense for my little family and most importantly, me. And I hate saying that, but truly Argyle Toys is putting me first. A mom putting herself first - GASP!
Okay - let's breathe some air back into the room. My littles and husband are definitely leaders in my life but during the pandemic it became abundantly clear that I can't help them unless I help myself. My cup needs to be full so I can continue to fill there's with love, guidance, patience and snacks...always snacks.
Enter Amber and Maddy. These two chicks are inspiring in their own ways. One night over a fire outside in the middle of December (only place to socialize during COVID was outside - even in 24 degrees), the question was posed - why don't we open a toy store in the village. Maddy was ready to jump back into the working world after being an advocate for her twin special-needs boys. Amber was looking for something fun to supplement her stressful but fulfilling full-time job. And I was looking. Looking for something.
And it clicked...
For all of 2020, I was looking for fun and unique ways to entertain my tenacious 3-year old daughter all while going through a challenging pregnancy during a global pandemic. Toys were everything. They brought joy and adventure to our small house when it was the only place we could be. Toys became our outlet and the only thing to buy me time for a shower.
Maddy, Amber and I decided the time was now. We needed to bring our backgrounds together and help curate an experience that will create some magic, help parents find great toys and enhance our village. And so, Argyle Toys was born. It was time to hit the ground running.
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