Some parents know the digitally fueled scenario. Many kids often detach from real interaction in favor of texting, while others remain in a zombified state staring at their tablet, computer or TV.
Sometimes it takes unplugging from the electronic age to enjoy the tactile world instead of being stuck in the virtual. And this holiday season, the next step could be wrapped beneath the tree. Instead of online shopping for an electronic gift for that kid in your life, an in-person visit to a metro Atlanta retailer might just uncover that perfect unplugged child-friendly present.
Blabla dolls
These days, it’s not uncommon to see toddlers gazing at videos on tablets or smartphones. Those young enough can still find joy cuddling up with one of these timeless, ultra-soft dolls. Designed in Virginia-Highland and hand-sewn by artisans in Peru, they manifest in a near-endless array of characters. Reindeer, cats, mermaids and more make up just a small portion of those available.
Blabla Kids, 1189 Virginia Ave. N.E., Atlanta. 404-875-6496, blablakids.com.
Lego
Reports have shown that Lego building bricks inspire creative problem-solving and even heal emotions. Bucket loads of Lego can be found at the gift shop of Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta at Phipps Plaza. Popular properties including “Star Wars,” Disney princesses, Marvel and DC superheroes and more come in Lego form. At the shop, expect to find everything from the boy-friendly Lego City sets to the girl-centric Lego Friends.
Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta, Phipps Plaza, 3500 Peachtree Road N.E., Atlanta. 404-848-9252, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta.
Books
Rather have your tot forgo reading on the computer and opt for the real thing? The book-savvy staff at Little Shop of Stories in the Decatur Square will open you to the appropriate chapter. They say preschoolers love “They All Saw a Cat” by Brendan Wenzel. Early elementary school girls gravitate toward Shannon Hale’s “Princess in Black” series. Those in upper elementary school can’t get enough of Nathan Hale’s “Hazardous Tales” series. “A Study in Charlotte” by Brittany Cavallaro gives Sherlock Holmes a feminine spin.
Little Shop of Stories, 133A E. Court Square, Decatur. 404-373-6300, littleshopofstories.com.
Magic tricks
While the latest app may seem like magic in the palm of our hands, cast an entertaining spell by gifting a child with an entry-level magic trick. Age-old illusions such as cups and balls, the Chinese magic sticks, color-changing hankies and more can be found at Eddie’s Trick Shop, an endearing magical oasis on the Marietta Square. Shop a la carte or invest in a magic set with multiple tricks for budding wannabe wizards.
Eddie's Trick Shop, 70 S. Park Square, Marietta. 770-428-4314, eddiestrickshop.com.
Board games
The Rhen’s Nest Toy Shop has a strong reputation for supporting family game night and stocks its shelves with an impressive collection. The staff says they carry games for those as young as 2, spanning all the way up to adulthood. First Orchard features larger wooden pieces made especially for tinier hands. The object of the game is to harvest fruit and pack a basket before a pesky raven lands at the end of the trail. Those ages 8 and older may enjoy the sword and sorcery found in Dragonwood. Other popular games at Rhen’s Nest include Dixit, a game of storytelling and guessing, and Pengoloo, a memory game for the younger set.
Rhen's Nest Toy Shop, 924 Garrett St., Suite D, Atlanta. 404-500-6260, rhensnesttoyshop.com.
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