Child's Play Toys & Books — Local services in Washington

I was a fan of this place before COVID-19. No matter how much thought I knew what my toddler wanted, every time I went in to get him something, I learned something new. Just tell the staff member about the kid you're buying for, and they can show you more toys that you can handle - each of which the kid will love. I've come here for birthday gifts - and each time, we get huge compliments on the gifts.

But with COVID-19, I was a bit nervous shopping today. I showed up without an appointment, but called to see if there was room for me. There was. They had a check in process for contact tracing purposes (brilliant idea). They have a sanitizing/mask station. And they clean any toys that people touch (after you touch a toy, you put it on the ground so they know to clean it). I was so impressed with the level of thought and care that they put into their protocols. It made me feel good about shopping there.

Plus, I walked in thinking I was going to get my son a truck, walked out with a crane....

While in town for my wife’s work, my son and I have been out exploring the city. We have never been much for buying tchotchkes as souvenirs, yet few things can bring back the memories of travel like a material thing found along the way. After visiting the gift shop at the National Aquarium in Baltimore and seeing the crummy toy offerings, I told my son we’d find a real toy store - and Child’s Play Toys & Books is definitely that! We were greeted and assisted by passionate toy aficionados - professional retailers. Take your time when you visit this store - there’s a ton to see. Now my son has a quality toy that will bring back memories of our DC trip. We also had a puzzle gift wrapped for free at the counter as a gift for my father-in-law for watching our animals - this was the perfect store for us today! (You know you’re dealing with a serious store when they have an entire shelf dedicated to the best board game ever...

This is one of the great toy stores of the world. It is worth driving hours to come here. The store is staffed with true experts, some of whom have experience in child psychology and child development. Make sure to ask lots of questions. The staff will impress you with their knowledge and will guide you to a toy or game you have never heard of or seen before that is exactly what your child needs to get ready for their next big developmental step. They also have such a huge and versatile selection that you will want to set aside some serious time to explore. I am from NYC, have no connection to the store owners in any way, and never miss a chance to visit when I drive down. After visiting toy stores far and wide to find something more interesting than the usual, cheaply made, youtube advertised, plasticware, I am truly thankful to have...