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And while needs certainly change, she said arts and crafts tends to be her best selling section. "Creativity is so important for the brain and not just limited to kids; I have quite a few adults who come in for things for themselves too," she said.
Also popular: the game section. "My family spends a lot of time at home playing games so I'm always looking for new ones," said Ramsey.
In general, she avoids mass-market and licensed toys so don't expect what's popular in commercials or on TV on The Toy Room's shelves.
Among her best-selling items:
- Tenzi (a dice game developed in Fairfield County)
- Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putty
- Charm It Charms
- Baby Paper
- Silly Sticks by Maple Landmark
- Calico Critters
As for what might be "hot" for the holidays, she said she's seeing the following:
- Worry Eaters by Haywire Group
- Plush Crafts by Orb Factory
- Calico Critters and Breyer Horses
- Science Kits by Thames & Kosmos
"My gut tells me that I'll be selling a lot of Super Dough by Paulinda," said Ramsey. "Everyone who has tried it comes back for more and it's is one of those items where the 12 and 13- year-olds love it as much, if not more than, the 4 and 5-year olds."
The Bethel resident who has owned The Toy Room for nine years, is all about supporting local, eco-friendly and/or USA-made companies and tries to carry a variety of non-China made toys. She also has a nice selection of items that benefit/encourage those with special needs.
She also, for the record, has set up her store by categories and not by "boy/girl" sections. "It shouldn't matter what gender likes what toy," she said. "I wish more toy companies would use more gender-neutral packaging."
Her other wish? That toys didn't have ages printed on the packages because, "aside from the choking-hazard warnings, kids should be able to play with toys based on their interest and abilities," she said.
The Toy Room is at 153 Greenwood Ave., (203) 791-0531, www.toyroombethel.com/.
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