Debbie Eyler says there’s nothing like seeing a child’s eyes light up with joy when she or he finds the perfect toy. She’s witnessed this magic moment many times as the owner of Toy Nation on Capital City NE.
Eyler believes the perfect toy isn’t something that just keeps the child busy. It helps children develop creatively and intellectually.
“The toys we carry help enrich a child’s life. That might involve more parental involvement, but we think that’s a good thing,” said Eyler.
“Our items focus on developing free-thinking and imaginative play,” she said.
The staff, including co-owner Elizabeth Holop, takes a hands-on approach to customer service, often playing games with the children and providing gift wrapping services.
Toy Nation features toys like Lammily, a doll which empowers children of all shapes and sizes to develop self-esteem, have a positive body image and to be accepting of others. According to the toy designer, Lammily is the first doll to use realistic body shape and proportions in its design.
The store also carries Lux blocks, American-made building blocks which let children build structures that curve, bend, and move.
For the older child, Toy Nation sells paint ball equipment and Eyler’s husband, Mark, owns Tallahassee Paint Ball Sports.
“Toys have a big influence on kids and their development,” said Eyler. “Quality toys inspire active and thinking play.”
Toy Nation is in The Festival Shopping Plaza at 2746 Capital Circle NE, right of El Jalisco. Hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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