Best of RI adds toy stores to ballot

A new category on this year's Best of Rhode Island list is "Best Kids Toy and Craft Store."

What kid, big and small doesn't like a toy store, and being able to play with all the cool things while your there?

Brainwaves Toy Store in Narragansett is the place for you. 

"We opened in the summer of two thousand and five so we are starting our eighth summer," said Lori Lind, owner of Brainwaves Toy Store.

The store has toys you may not find in big box toy stores like, Chinese Yo-Yo, a toy owl that hoots, and the button every parent needs: the NO button. 

Lori is also and occupational therapist.  

"I’m an occupational therapist I had children and became obsessed with toys and how children learn through playing and was having trouble finding cool toys. Like you can't find the things that helped develop find motor skills and gross motor skills and social skills in the big box stores. So, I spent a lot of time obsessing about this.  Looking for the cool toys and they are out there they just weren’t all in one place. So, one thing led to another and brainwaves was born from that."

Brainwaves wants kids to get involved and most important, play.

If you're looking for the hot video game you won't find it at Brainwaves, but you will find toys that will spark your child’s imagination. 

Just don’t look for that big, must have Christmas item.

"We don't have the one hot seller most of the time because we try not to have the things that are in the big box stores. We try and have that unique toy."

One of the best is a unique toy, like the plasma car.  

"The plasma car is powered by moving the steering wheel back and fourth." 

One on one attention has also set this store apart from the rest.

"I think its the type of toys we offer. We're able to help the customer individually with their needs. People come in with all sorts of ideas of things that they want to play a game that can be done with little kids all the way up to the adults in the family. Toys for babies. Things that will help stimulate intelligence. Seeing the kids come in enjoy what their doing. Letting them play throughout the store. Helping the families choose that perfect toy. The best part is when they come back and say you know that gift that you suggested was their favorite. Or they were playing with that all day long."

And you can see who the winners are Thursday night, as The Rhode Show broadcasts live from the Providence Performing Arts Center for The Rhode Show Prime-time Special Rhode Island Monthly's Best of Rhode Island. It starts at 7:30 p.m. WPRI 12