The Whistle Stop Blog

1. Promotes Independence As children get older, some want to rely less and less on their family to feel more independent. A locked journal gives them just that by creating a sense of control and authority over an object that’s all their own. 2. Refines Spelling Learning is more enjoyable when you don’t even realize you’re doing it. When journaling...

While we all look forward to summer, parents are not alone when worrying about their kids’ education and the potential ‘summer slide’ caused by summer break. Summer Slide refers to the loss of academic skills and knowledge over the course of summer vacation. The last thing any parent wants is to take away from their kids’ summer fun, but at...

As parents, there are so many values and morals we try to impart to our children, at any age. We’ve all heard of the Golden Rule, but inspiring kindness in kids can be a challenge for any parent. Thoughtfulness for people is not natural and often comes secondary. Sharing how to be kind and thoughtful in a way that engages...

Reward systems use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. If you want to help your kids build the right behavioral habits and reduce tantrums at the same time, you can try this parent-approved life hack; reward systems. They encourage behavioral modification through positive reinforcement. Here's how to set up a reward system that works for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged kids...

It’s that time of year again where we exchange our water wings and trips up north for textbooks and field trips. Summer has a way of flying by and soon enough the kids will be back at school. To help get you started, here are some tips for preparing for back to school!  Start a Morning Schedule While it may...

With Mother's Day approaching, show mom just how much you love her by working on a craft or an activity with her on her special day. Listed below are 20 Mother's Day crafts and activities for quality time. Every craft and activity listed below are either available here at Whistle Stop Hobby & Toy or can be made at home...

As we get back to traveling with the family, it's important to have things handy to keep the kids busy and entertained while traveling either by car or plane. We know how hard that can be, especially with young ones so we've compiled a list of fun and engaging products for all ages. Here’s a list of our favorite products...

We know it, Easter baskets can sometimes be daunting. Finding just the right balance of toys and treats that will get the kids excited. To bring the fun back in Easter, we’ve compiled our favorite products that will make the perfect addition to any basket. Don’t forget to top it off with candy, a cuddly plush, or a book for...

Sensory play is any toy or activity that uses a child's senses (touch, smell, taste, sight, hearing and also includes movement and balance). Sensory play is an important aspect of child development. It can be tailored for babies to kindergarteners. Babies naturally use all of their senses to explore the world around them. They watch, listen, grasp, and put anything...

5 Ways to Use Magna-Tiles for Early Learning Yes, we all love Magna-Tiles! They're one of the best building toys on the market but they're also so versatile. Magna-Tiles have become a staple for early learning in children. Parents have come up with tons of ideas on our to incorporate Magna-tiles in their learning and play. Here are some of...

Board games can be great educational tools. They can help little ones learn the basics like letters, numbers, shapes, and colors. Practicing social and emotional skills like cooperation, taking turns, teamwork and sharing are equally important for a child's development. Listed below are some of our favorite games that encourage those social and emotional skills while also learning the basics...

Winters in Michigan always provide a wide variety of weather. With the changes in weather comes a change in the type of play that makes sense on a day-to-day basis. Here in Macomb County, we’ll see the weather change from sunny to wet and rainy to a winter wonderland! Sometimes all in one afternoon! As we continue through the Michigan...

We've all been looking for things to do at home but arts and crafts can sometimes seem daunting. If you're looking for something to occupy your time during the cold winter months without all the hassle, things crafts, and activities are for you! Sticker Books Sticker & Chill - Flower Fest$16.99 Paint by Sticker - Dogs$14.95 Craft Kits Craft Crush...

Looking for the perfect gift? We've compiled all of our top toys for this holiday season! From babies to adults, you'll find something for everyone on your list! Paddle Boat - Green Toys$14.99Ages: 6 months and up Inny Bin - Fat Brain Toys$24.99Ages: 10 months and up Whirly Squigz - Fat Brain Toys$21.99Ages: 10 months and up Dimpl Digits...

In today’s world, parents have adjusted to at-home learning at some capacity. Whether you’re home-schooling full-time, part-time virtual learning, or supplementing what your kids are learning at school, there’s more of a need than ever for tools to make education at home, easy and fun. That’s where Word Witt comes in! Word Witt is a card and dice game, for...

For Generations, this Local Toy Store Provides Fun and Happiness for Kids of All Ages in the Community Family owned and operated, Whistle Stop Hobby and Toy is excited to celebrate our 50th anniversary and share it with the community in September this year. We are very thankful to all of our loyal patrons that have made the last 50...

Playing with animal figurines is not only fun but beneficial for a child. There are a number of ways this traditional toy can bring new and engaging fun to playtime while also growing. When playing with animals, most kids like to use it as pretend play with family or friends. This helps practice verbalization and language skills. In addition, pretend...

Have you walked through your local park in your neighborhood, or by a local store and noticed a hand-painted rock hiding in plain sight? This hidden treasure is likely part of the painted rock trend that has taken off over the last few years. Originally inspired by The Kindness Rocks Project, this crafty treasure hunt holds endless fun for kids...

It doesn’t matter what age you are, kids and parents alike enjoy the experience of fun activities to spark joy and happiness. For the last 50 years, Whistle Stop Hobby & Toy has helped parents, grandparents, and families of all types bring imagination and playtime together for their kids. One of the best joys for a parent in life is...

During these unprecedented times, parents all over Metro Detroit are looking for creative ways to keep kids occupied, educated and burning energy, while they work from home for the first time. While some resort to screen time in the chaos, there are many options to keep children’s brain and body moving, while giving you the space needed to work. Parents...

As the world becomes more connected through technology we all struggle with controlling the amount of time we spend on our devices and in front of screens. While it can be difficult, did you know there are benefits of unplugging for kids that is important for their growth and development?  Disconnecting From Screens Connects People Research has found that “unplugging”...

Spending time with your family is more than just having playtime. Quality time with your children is a key part of their development and building a relationship with them.  Builds Self-Esteem In Children Kids who spend time with their parents participating in activities together have better self-confidence and build positive self-worth. They are more sociable because they sense that their...