WILLIAMSBURG — The Playful Educator officially opened its doors in Williamsburg on Friday, May 31.
The business prides itself on offering a unique and curated selection that caters specifically to children’s interests and developmental needs, offering high-quality toys that foster creativity, imagination, and learning. Its boutique experience offers a personalized experience and a knowledgeable staff that can offer recommendations based on age, interests and developmental stages, it said.
Additionally, it provides educators with specialized materials, curriculum resources, and teaching aids designed to enhance classroom instruction. It also offers a wide range of educational tools, decorations and organizational supplies, while for parents, The Playful Educator has a wealth of educational materials that can support learning at home.
The Playful Educator is owned by Rachel Salmon, the president of The Kensington School for the last 14 years, who decided to launch the business when it looked like School Crossing would close. Andrew and Erika Elgert have since purchased School Crossing with plans to hold a Grand ReOpening celebration starting June 8.
“We as the school needed something to be able to support our classrooms to be able to get something quickly, to be able to see different toys, different resources,” Salmon said. “Also, there are so many educational and commercial toys and manipulatives that we have in our classrooms that aren’t offered in typical big box stores. I am excited to bring these educational resources to all children, teachers, parents and friends!”
Salmon said she wants to support [the community] — whether it’s an item for their classroom, a parent who needs resources for their child, or a grandparent looking for a gift for their grandchild.
The store is located at 5251 John Tyler Highway and will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.
For more information, please visit its official website.
