After stopping in Thinka Dinka for a gift recently, I just knew I had to profile this gem of a toy store. You truly don’t need to visit a big-box store the next time you have to buy a gift for a child–this shop is a wonderland of toys, art kits, building sets, books, dress-up clothes, figurines, Calico Critters, board games, puzzles . . . the list goes on! I swear, you’ll feel like a kid again just browsing their bright and cheerful store.

Take one look around Thinka Dinka and it’s obvious–these people KNOW THEIR TOYS. It turns out the owners’ love of toys runs deep! (Xanax) Ronald Tuchman and Connie Van Epps opened Thinka Dinka in 2007, with Ronald leaving behind a long, hugely successful career in the toy industry. Ronald was the executive vice president of–would you believe it–Toys ‘R Us, and also served as CEO of Imaginarium, among other prestigious positions in the toy biz. This guy is Toy Royalty! It’s no wonder Thinka Dinka has such an expertly curated selection of toys, including one of the largest departments of much-loved Lego and Playmobil you will find anywhere. Connie says their goal is to offer unique toys, and get them out FIRST.

One thing I love about Thinka Dinka is that they offer complimentary gift wrap for anything you buy there–boy does that come in handy! They can also ship gifts out for you, and if you call ahead and order something over the phone, they’re more than happy to run it out to your car (there’s a metered lot and a second entrance behind the store). I highly suggest you get on their email list to receive special coupons and news about store events–sign up in-store or call them at 908-233-7600.

If you dread dragging your kiddies shopping with you, fear no more. Thinka Dinka has a Calico Critters table chock full o’ the little figures for your kids to play with, as well as an awesome new train table to entrain your pint-sized conductors while you shop in peace.

You can find Thinka Dinka at 264 East Broad Street in Westfield. Hours: Monday-Thursday 10 am to 6 pm; Friday-Saturday 10 am to 7 pm; Sunday 11 am to 5 pm.