Kangeroo Kids
I love a lot of the aspects of this shop, but I find that the items I am in search of, the new breastfeeding support items, etc, are often out of stock. Their support senter is a great resource for new moms, and there is no better place to meet other AP moms. The products they carry tend to be affordable, as far as the used items are concerned, but the selection of high quality items was small when we were there last.
Lagoonamagoo Toys
If you are looking for something a little out of the norm for educational toys, check out Lagoonamagoo in the Mills. The customer service is worth the stop alone. The store is much easier to maneuver than Once Upon A Toy in Edwardsville, but offers many of the same items. The location is great because it's very convenient to stop here while you are shopping in other areas of the mall, instead of having to make a specific stop in a standalone location.
Discovery Toys
I was pursuaded by a friend to have a party and before I knew it, I was talked into being a salesperson for Discovery Toys. The toys just don't sell that easily and they are a little high in prices for something that's available almost anywhere - including ebay.
Bradburn's Parent Teacher Str
If you're looking for truly educational items, Bradburns on Hampton has everything you could imagine. We enjoy the stock of Crayola items - from multicultural skin tones to huge, jumbo crayons for toddlers, you won't find this stuff at Target! The customer service is nice, but not terribly helpful in an understaffed, large store like this. But, the store is pretty open and easy to navigate, and well-organized.
Happy Up Inc.
The owner of Once Upon A Toy really needs to expand like in the Shiloh location - the Edwardsville shop is filled to the brim with STUFF and it's too difficult to maneuver through with children in tow. However, if you're looking for Shylling toys, remakes of old/antique toys, or just something you can't find in a Toys R Us, this place is for you - just leave the kids at home that day.
Circle of Knowledge
When you really want attention to detail and customer service, going to a small, locally-owned business is the way to do it. Circle of Knowledge has hard-to-find educational items as well as high-quality toys. I found that the cashier/clerks who work here are typically well-informed and can help you find just what you're looking for. The store is neat, but a little tight as far as space is concerned.
Abortion Alternatives
I first learned I was expecting at Birthright and the staff there was AMAZING. They had all the information, referrals, and resources I could have ever wanted. The counselors there were compassionate and understanding, and the wait time for an appointment was short.
Nestle Purina Petcare Company
I have several relatives who have sent their kids here and were thrilled with the attention, instruction, and committment. They all found babysitters through the daycare service and the girls became like a part of the family. The prices are reasonable and the location is very clean as well. The director is approachable and nice to speak with.
Mers Missouri Goodwill Downtown St. Louis
Why shop at Plato's Closet when you can go to Goodwill and save a bundle? Even Once Upon a Child can't hold a candle - dig through the racks and spend some time, you'll be sure to find quality items.
Webster University
Nestled in the small community of Webster Groves, Webster University is a perfect choice for those who crave a liberal arts education in an affordable, local setting. The staff at the financial aid office is particularly helpful in explaining all of your funding options - I had no idea that I could qualify for student loans and that I would not have to pay them back until I graduated. I thought they were just like a car loan. But the staff made it possible for me to be the first person in my family to attend a private university.
