On April 13, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced that she expects the Illinois stay-at-home order to extend until May. We understand the need to stay home in the hope that we can send our children to camp by July, but you will also need to find ways to keep them occupied. If your kids are active learners, consider developing their typing skills with these typing games. Or, for more playtime, we’ve put together a list of independent toy stores in Chicago that are still in business – at least online! From scooters to table games, these stores provide entertainment for all members of the family.
If Montessori methods and environmental awareness play a role in choosing toys for your children, you should consider purchasing toys online from Geppetto’s Toy Box. They have everything from puzzles and building blocks to world music books and arts and crafts. Their toys are intended for toddlers, “tweens”, adults and everyone else.
In addition to curbside service, Geppetto’s offers concierge services. Visit their Facebook page or call them to make an appointment to shop via video chat. They will deliver anywhere within an 8 mile radius.
Step out of your apartment and dive into a comic book. AlleyCat Comics has everything from DC classics to rare and obscure contemporaries. Even if you’re new to comics, AlleyCat has something to inspire the superhero in all of us. Orders can be placed on their website, by phone or by e-mail. Payment is made by phone. They offer curbside pickup or door-to-door shipping.
The red balloon is for the cool kids in the neighborhood. This online toy store offers products such as Speedsters, 25-key pianos, and classic pedal cars. They also wear monogrammed clothing and keepsakes. There’s even a Chicago memorabilia section for kids. Orders can be placed by phone or email. The store offers free shipping during COVID-19.
With locations in Logan Square, Andersonville and Lincoln Park, Play brings 20 years of toy industry experience to Chicagoans across the city. Shop for classic toys online such as Legos and Sidewalk Chalk. However, they also offer contemporary childhood books on feminist themes. RBG would totally approve. Send an email or call the store for a phone appointment. They only offer delivery at the moment.
With more than 25 years of activity in Chicago, Building Blocks offers all the toys one can imagine. From bathtub toys to toy train sets and science experiment kits, they’ve got it all! Orders are available by SMS. Local delivery and curbside pickup are available at the Lakeview store.
Dice Dojo has served the table game community in Chicago for over ten years. If you’ve ever considered playing the fantastic tabletop games, your 40s is a great time to start. This online toy store offers door-to-door delivery within the city limits of Chicago.
Cat & Mouse Games offers a huge range of color-by-number crafts, elaborate engineering building kits, and Calico creatures. There is also an abundance of outdoor activities like kites, frisbees, and scooters. Buy their entire collection online.
Timeless Toys offers kids’ gardening kits, science experiments, and plenty of active engagement toys to buy online. Plus, you can find the classics, like Chess, Play-Doh, and Slinkies. Orders are available online and by phone. Shipping to Chicago is free.