Kiddywampus celebrates creativity–in kids, and adults. Owner Amy Saldanha is a big proponent of local toy makers, designers and experts in the kid universe. As a result, her customers are the beneficiaries of that talent pool, and the test-lab atmosphere of the store. I recently signed up my 3-year-old to test a new line of art projects from Minnetonka-based Metamorphic Toys. He was given a sturdy cardboard mailbox and told to decorate it, which he did when we got home:
His masterpiece is now in his room, where he awaits daily deliveries. Never know what you might find in that mailbox: a plastic ice cream cone, socks, a small book. It even held up to a round of catch between said 3-year-old and his older brother. You could say he likes it. Apparently he wasn’t the only one: Kiddywampus is hosting an Arty Party from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15 for the store launch of the Everythingland Mailbox and Silly Signs by Metamorphic Toys. Meet inventor Dave Berglund and register to win prizes. Space is limited, so rsvp at 952-926-7871. And sign up for the Kiddywampus mailing list to participate in future toy testings, art classes, parties and other fun events (there’s a toy room for playdates, too). 4400 Excelsior Blvd., St. Louis Park, 952-926-7871
© 2008 MSP Communications, Inc. All rights reserved