Big-Hearted Kid Wanted to Help Give Away 100 Pianos

Schoenhut Pianos, maker of beautiful toy pianos that look just like the real thing, is looking for a big-hearted, music-loving kid who'd like to help them giveaway 100 My First Pianos to children in need. To be chosen for this prestigious honor, children through age 14 cooperate with their parents to prepare a video wherein they must address 5 specific points:

• Why you love music
• How music has made your life better
• How you helped someone else by sharing music with him or her
• How needy children in your neighborhood will benefit by receiving Schoenhut My First Piano II (for children ages 3 to 5)
• Why you (or the child you are nominating) should be the one to give away 100 Schoenhut My First Piano IIs.

The contest starts immediately and continues through June 15. Read the complete details and official rules here.

PlayFair Toys is so supportive of this creative, generous idea, that we're offering a "matching challenge". If a Colorado kid wins this challenge, we're going to (1) donate a Schoenhut "Baby Baby Grand Piano" to the Rocky Mountain Center for Musical Arts in Lafayette, a non-profit, community-based music school founded on the principle of making music available to all, regardless of economic status, and (2) donate a second Schoenhut Toy Grand to a local music school in the community of your choice. But that's not all! The winning Colorado kid will also get a $100 gift certificate to spend at PlayFair Toys store in Boulder. We think you deserve a big pat on the back if you win!

So that's 2 extra pianos, the absolute best toy pianos available, and $100 to the winner, if a Colorado kid wins! So go for it, Colorado kids! Show the world how much you care, and help bring us all together through the joy of music. And although it's not required, I'd love it if you emailed me with your youtube video link! I'll be watching for you!

Yours in music,

Professor PlayFair

Local is Beautiful: Making Conscious Choices to Support Our Communities

Where and how you spend has direct impacts on the economy, environment, and your quality of life. Our society has been living a throw-away lifestyle, resulting in massive impacts – global warming, wars, and economic strife. We have treated our atmosphere, our water, and our land, as dumps. Chains and big box stores have replaced downtowns and locally-owned businesses across America. Boulder has fared better than most, giving us more opportunity to choose where we spend. This is a critical choice. It’s time to calculate the real cost of where we shop and what we buy.

I admit to a strong personal stake in this argument. Five years ago I gave up a successful career in ecological research to own PlayFair Toys, a long-established Boulder business. One reason behind my decision was a belief that business could be a positive force in a community, a part of the solution to the problems I was studying.

Small changes in spending habits can have big impacts. A recent Michigan study concluded that if the 600,000 residents of Kent County redirected just 10% of their spending to locally-owned businesses, it would create nearly $140 million in new economic activity and 1600 new jobs! A similar study here would not yield precisely the same result, but if we could extrapolate directly it would mean $66 million in new economic activity and 750 new jobs. Even if we’re off by an order of magnitude, that’s an enormous impact. How simple this is – change where you shop just one time in ten – and take a step toward changing the world.

I imagine you thinking, “Yes, but I need to save money by shopping the discount chains.” I understand your concern, but is it accurate? Chains are perceived to be inexpensive due to economy of scale. They frequently license a brand but have it manufactured to a different standard. They keep costs down through questionable business practices that often bypass environmental and human rights standards.

Purchasing products made close to home is one of the most powerful actions we can take to improve the environment and community. Energy is at the core of the economic and environmental mess we are in. Purchasing toys made close to home saves energy through less transportation and helps maintain control over environmental impacts. 80% of toys sold in the US are made in China. People were incredulous when certain large toy manufacturers stated they were not aware lead paint was being used to make their toys, but unfortunately they were probably being truthful. They had probably never set foot in those factories nor even knew their exact location. Ethical toy makers work closely with their factories, wherever they are, to maintain humanitarian and environmental standards. They have a personal relationship with the factory managers and owners.

Large corporations spend many ad dollars to convince us they care deeply about people, communities, and the environment. Target is often cited as a “good” chain store, and they do a better job than some other chains in some areas. Yet Target was fined by the EPA for failing to disclose critical environmental information, has done almost nothing to reduce solid waste despite high profile claims, and was given an “F” by the NAACP for its lack of commitment to people of color.

As you watch your budget, know that toys and games are great values for family entertainment. High quality family games cost less than a trip to the movies, constantly offer new choices, and will provide years of family togetherness. Richard Gottlieb recently wrote in Playthings magazine:

“I think playing games with a parent, siblings, or one's friends leads to social literacy. We learn how to interact with other people using a set of rules about what we can and cannot do. …They provide a way for people to cluster and offer life lessons.”

My investment in PlayFair was an investment in Boulder and in the values of fairness and conscious buying. Founded in 1982 as the first toy store in the US dedicated to offering toys based on fairness to all children, we continue our deep commitment to this core value. In June we were featured as a magazine cover story on Green Retailing, because of our commitment to the environment - from the toys we stock to how we operate.

PlayFair carries many toy and game lines made in the US, from Colorado and elsewhere, that cannot be purchased in chains and big box stores. We can help you with specific information about the toy companies and lines we carry, their safety records and commitment to the environment, wherever their toys are made. Target has an aggressive campaign going to create the image of a specialty toy store within a store. Take a close look at the realities of selection, service, and price before you decide where to spend. I am always available to speak directly with you about any aspect of my business.

PlayFair Toys is here for you, Boulder. We remain 100% locally owned. Our children attend local schools. We donate generously to local schools and family organizations. We know that many of you share our values. I urge you to support locally-owned businesses as one small step toward saving the planet and ourselves.

4 Ways Your Tax Stimulus Check Can Help You and Our Local Economy

The New Rules Project developed this list and asked that it be freely distributed. I think these are such great ideas that I am passing them along. I urge you to do the same.

4 Ways Your Rebate Check Can Help You and Our Local Economy

Pay Off Credit Card Debt
Americans wasted over $60 billion last year on credit card finance charges—money that could have been put to much more productive use.

Invest In Your Future
Investing doesn't just mean stocks and bonds. You could enroll in a class to improve your skills. Or insulate your home. Or buy a bicycle and save on gas all summer long.

Help Your Neighbors
By donating to a local food bank or nonprofit, you can put your rebate to work helping neighborhood families put food on the table and meet other basic expenses.

Buy From Locally Owned Businesses
Every $100 you choose to spend at a locally owned, independent business generates more than $50 in additional economic activity in our region. That same $100 spent at a big-box store creates only $14 in benefit for the local economy. Much of the difference is due to the fact
that local businesses buy more goods and services from other local businesses, while chains siphon money out of the state.*

* This flyer was published by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance and may be
freely copied, distributed, and published. To read the studies and learn more, visit the
institute's web site at www.newrules.org/retail.

PlayFair Toys is an independent, locally-owned business located in Boulder, Colorado. We are proud to provide healthy educational toys and jobs to our community.

Top 5 Ways to Save Money on Toys

Is it that I've gained, or did someone put the economy in the dryer on high? It's feeling a bit tight!

Whatever is going on in the world, we all understand that childhood comes but once. We want our children to have rich and happy childhoods, no matter what. We want to be able to offer them great toys, we want them to attend birthday parties, and we want them to have fun. So what can you do when money is tight? Whether you are shopping for birthday gifts, something to make a trip go a bit better, or just planning ways to keep the kids busy this summer, we've got ideas that we will help you save money on your toy purchases.

Consider a group present for birthday parties - It's true that all children are different, but I can't count how many times I've attended a birthday party only to watch the birthday girl or boy quickly become overwhelmed by the number of new things they were presented with, each gift needing and deserving hours of attention. Although it might take a bit more planning on your part, having multiple guests give one present that will be truly appreciated can not only save money but will also make for a less overwhelming and less stressful party experience.

Make a budget and stick to it - Decide what you can afford, and then take only that much in cash with you when you shop. That sounds obvious, but how many times are we swayed by kids who want that next better one? Paying with cash can help them understand the finality of it. Money isn't magical - I have a $20 bill, and that's all I have. We have to find something that fits what we have. So you save money while imbuing a habit for a lifetime - living within our means. Now there's a gift that your children can use!

Consider organizing a toy club - This works mainly for babies and toddlers, but it can work wonders for them. This takes about 4-8 families with similarly aged children to work well, although if you have good organizational skills it could be bigger. Each family has an agreed upon number of toys that they contribute to the club, while they are participating in it (your toys remain your property). It works best if that number is equal to the number of families in the club, so that, for example, in a 4 family club everyone puts in 4 toys. About each 4 weeks, clean and sanitize the toys, get together, and swap, so that the sets of toys rotate among the families. When you get your own toys back, you might consider rotating a new set in. Toy rotation can also be practiced in your own home, but what a cost savings to do it this way! Make it a play date and everyone will look forward to this special day.

Take your time to find the right toy - Take the time to pick out toys that are durable, open-ended, and age appropriate. I emphasize that last point because often we are influenced by what our children may have seen on television or at a friend's house, etc, but if that toy is not developmentally appropriate for our child at this point in time, then it may well end up being a complete waste of money. Once a toy is relegated to a corner because it's either too complex to figure out or too simple to hold interest, it's unlikely to come back out, even when the child is ready for it.

Shop your local, independently-owned toy dealer - This tip really brings all the others together, and it is ultimately the one that makes them all possible. Where else will you find someone who can find the right gift at the right time at the right price? They will spend the time necessary to shop with you. Rather than pointing you to one section of a giant store, "Toys", instead you will be presented with nothing but toys, each carefully selected by an expert in toys and child development. Compare prices, and I suspect you'll be pleasantly surprised at how affordable your local toy store is.

So yes, the economy is very tight, if not downright recessive. But we buy toys because we love our children, plain and simple. Keep your toy buying plain and simple, too, and you'll still be able to help your children have great playthings without breaking the bank.

Boulder Families Celebrate Earth Day 2008

PlayFair Toys Presents EARTH DAY 2008 with events and happenings to help raise awareness of our role and our children's role in keeping our planet clean and sustainable for many millennia. All events are free and open to the public. Call 303-444-7502 for more information.

FREE NATURAL SCULPTURE MAKING CLASS
Saturday April 19, 12-2 PM
Join local artist Diana Mercer of Clementine Arts Kits and Clementine Studios as she leads children through an open-ended sculpture making activity. There is no charge for this drop-in event. Participants and customers can register to win a free Clementine Refillable Reusable Art Kit of their choice! Free reservations are suggested to assure a space. Please call 303-444-7502 to reserve.

THE PRINCESS AND THE POLAR BEAR: AN ENVIRONMENTAL PUPPET FABLE
World Premier, Tuesday, April 22nd, 4
PM Encore performance Saturday April 26th, noon
Presented by our very own PlayFair Players, The Princess and the Polar Bear presents the lighter side of global warming and environmental change, offering kids concrete ways in which they can help shape their future to be safe and sane.

EARTH WEEK BOOK SECTION All Year Long
We've always offered you a strong selection of science books. This week we introduce our strongest ever environmental book selection for children and teen. Help your children develop an awareness of their place on the planet early.

GREEN TOYS All Year Long
We've always offered you a great selection of environmentally friendly toys. Now we take that further with more offerings of naturally-made products and better information on your toys. We are here to help you understand what makes a toy safe for your child and safe for the environment. Let us help you find that perfectly safe perfect toy for the child you love so much.

OUR CEO
PlayFair Toys may well be the planet's only toy store run by an international expert on global warming and the environment. Dr. Marilyn Walker has authored dozens of papers and book chapters on this topic, and she brings her passion for the environment to PlayFair and to the books, toys, and games we offer you.

We are always here to help you. You can support a local business that's here to support your smart kid by shopping now, either online or in our award-winning Boulder toy store.

What's New at PlayFair Toys in Boulder, CO, March 11 2008

We continue to restock your favorite toys, games, books, etc. Here's what's come in the door since my last update on February 15:

Lots of Arts and Crafts kits and art supplies including:

• Make Your Own Pinata Kits, which are featured in our Spring Flyer (hitting Boulder mailboxes any day now)
• New Wire Art kits that are both thematic and large and general including horses, bracelets, sculpture, creatures, and more
• Make a Plates are back in and make a great project for Easter
• Old favorites are back including Monster Trucks Custom Shop, Ancient Egypt Mummies, Make Your Own Fleece Pillow
• Wee Enchanted Fairy Garden is a great choice for Spring! Other good spring projects include the EZ Build Birdhouse and EZ Build Biplane

If you're getting ready for Spring Break, the little Dover Activity Books for only $1.50 are great to bring along. Get a handful of them so there's always something new when you need it. We also have Audio Books that are great for travel.

Legos are back in! We are so happy to see those shelves full again. There are new sets for 2008 a well as old favorites in the area of Lego City, Star Wars, and racers, our customer's favorites. We also have many new and returning Gears! Gears! Gears! sets by Learning Resources.

Magz toys and Magna-Tiles, plus Quadrilla is back.

New and old dolls by Corolle, and finally your favorite Ryan's Room dollhouse furniture!

There is a new spring Calico Critters playset - Spotty and Stella's Swimming Adventure. (And a sneak warning - there will be a new Calico Critters Manor House available in 4th quarter 2008 only - preorders will be taken until we have no more stock)

New Groovy Girls are in, including the bubblegum princesses, and some new supersize Groovy Girls dolls.

At your request, we have a small but nice selection of Polly Pockets.
Only Hearts Club dolls, horses, and stables are in with many new pieces, outfits, and now pets!

Woodkins are in- all styles.

Your favorite Zoobies are in. New styles are coming before summer.

Puppets puppets puppets puppets! Folkmanis has just introduced new Gift Box puppets, a kitten and puppy for that special occasion. Also they have expanded their line of Stage Puppets following their popularity last year. While the standard Folkmanis puppets are more like stuffed animals, the stage puppets are just a head and are perfect for putting on a show.

And how convenient that Puppet Theaters are also in!

For puzzlers, be sure to ask about Puzzibits, a way to make 3-dimensional creations from hexagonal plastic pieces - hard to describe but plenty of fun.

As always, we have new puzzles daily, everything from wooden peg puzzles to 5000 piece jigsaws for the most avid adult puzzle lovers.

Plasmacars! Also every single Kettler tricycle and bicycle is now in stock, fabulous springtime gifts. The face of your preschooler or toddler on a tricycle is a memory you will cherish forever. We also have Kettler scooters in both a beginning and more advanced style.


One of my personal favorites, the Schleich Animal Nursery, is back in, along with all the accessories to create a realistic African Kraal playspace. These play sets are not only unusual but also incredibly authentic and detailed. They would be great for a classroom activity on Africa, but they are designed as toys and have loads of play value.

WOW - Science Kits, Science Models - so much to see! Brand new Heart and Brain models by Learning Resources - incredibly detailed models help simulate dissection of a human brain and heart. Also we now have the Visible Woman and Visible Man models that you have been asking for. Our science kits have been restocked with kits from Scientific Explorer, most under $20 and perfect especially for young kids (they go as young as 4), Young Scientists Club (perfect for homeschoolers, the entire series is back in stock).
You asked for them - you got them - Lab Coats for kids! Coming soon, imprinted with Professor PlayFair, just like our staff wears!

The weather is changing fast, and we have plenty to do outdoors. Kites, jump ropes, juggling sticks, hopscotch, frisbee golf, and more.

New in our gift area are Anamalz, handcrafted wooden animal figurines, each one unique. Must be seen and touched to be appreciated.

Many continuing and new Train Sets from Learning Curve, as well as the popular and well-priced train and activity table by Melissa and Doug.

Darda Car Sets - basics are in, plus new Glow in the Dark and super looping sets.

Keep checking back here to see what's new. Call the Boulder store at 303-444-7502 or visit the PlayFair Toys website. Not everything mentioned here is immediately available for sale through the website. And don't forget to keep up with that crazy Professor PlayFair - she's always got suggestions for science, play, and just plenty to think about!

Thank you for making us a part of your lives for the 26th straight year!

Authors of High IQ Kids, Free Spirit Publishing, to sign at PlayFair Toys

Contact: Marilyn Walker FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tel: 303-440-7229Email: boulder@playfairtoys.com

PLAYFAIR TOYS HOSTS AUTHOR SIGNING OF HIGH IQ KIDS
It’s Smart to Have Fun – It’s Fun to be Smart Event

Boulder, CO – 15 Nov 2007 – Deborah Robson and Judy Fort Brenneman, co-authors (along with Kiesa Kaye) of High IQ Kids (Free Spirit Publishing, Oct 2007) will be reading from and signing copies of the book at PlayFair Toys, on November 23, 2007, from 5-6:30 PM. Both Ms. Robson and Ms. Brenneman are parents of the profoundly gifted children described within the books pages. Dr. Marilyn Walker, owner of PlayFair Toys, also contributed a chapter to the book. Other contributing authors include Dr. Linda Silverman, director of Denver’s Gifted Development Center and the nation’s leading expert on gifted children.

According to the publisher, “Profoundly gifted kids often get the least help in school. It’s assumed they’re smart enough to succeed on their own, plus teachers (and parents) feel out of their depth with these unique kids. A blend of personal stories and practical strategies, scholarly articles and entertaining essays from a community of voices—parents, educators, authors, researchers, and other experts—this book addresses the joys and challenges of raising and teaching, living with and understanding exceptionally gifted kids of all ages. Recommended for any adult who wants to know more (and may be desperate to know more) about high-IQ kids and how to support them, advocate for them, and meet their social, emotional, and learning needs.”

PlayFair has always been a different sort of toy and book store. It was started as a social experiment on gender bias in toys, and it was the nation’s first toy store that focused exclusively on gender-neutral, nonviolent toys. “We have always focused on customers looking for particular help with their toy buying – whether it was for special needs children, smart children, homeschool families, or just those wanting ‘something different’. This book signing kicks off our “It’s Smart to Have Fun – It’s Fun to Be Smart!” event. This event will focus on the educational and developmental benefits of play for all kids,” says Marilyn Walker, PlayFair Toys’ owner. “We are introducing our new mascot, Professor PlayFair, who’s a smart person who loves to have fun.”

The Front Range region of Colorado has been one of the nation’s focal points for the support of gifted kids for decades now. Having so many of the authors and contributors from this region highlights this. Ms. Robson and Ms. Brenneman will be available to answer questions from parents about the book and about their own experiences working with and raising gifted children. Copies of the book will be available for sale before, during, and after the event.

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For more information about this book signing, or to schedule an interview with Marilyn Walker, please call her at 720-261-5793, or email her boulder@playfairtoys.com.

Only 16 more days to save big on holiday shopping

PlayFair Toys' 2007 Early Buy Coupon expires at the end of November. Save a full 10% on all orders over $100 now through the end of November. Visit www.playfairtoys.com and enter code EB10 at checkout.