Kits & Kaboodle Classic Toys – Carmel

Kits & Kaboodle Classic Toys Moves to New Carmel City Center Location

Photographer / Linda Oldiges

Kits & Kaboodle Classic Toys, a well-established Carmel toy store, is now located at Carmel City Center. The move marks the start of the shop’s sixteenth year of providing engaging, appropriate toys to children from birth to age 12. Owner Teneen Dobbs is enjoying the experience of welcoming both old customers as well as new shoppers discovering the establishment. “We reopened at the Carmel City Center in the middle of July and it’s been a fun and exciting move,” Dobbs says. “Our footprint is smaller but our location now has more exposure. We are near the Cake Bake Shop and other retailers. People staying at the nearby hotel, or residents in the apartments and their visitors, come over and buy gifts.” In keeping with the European sensibility of Carmel City Center, the store has adopted a British theme. An umbrella reminiscent of the Mary Poppins character is included in the store’s logo. In addition to the store’s quality toys manufactured in the United States, several of the products offered are imported from Europe. Over the years Dobbs has kept her eye on toy trends, and stays current by attending trade shows. Recently, cuddly plush animals have surged in popularity and can provide comfort during these uncertain times. The store carries a line of collector-worthy stuffed animals made of mohair that are manufactured by the German company Steiff. Vanilla-scented dolls produced by French manufacturer Corolle provide another example of the store’s varied inventory. “It’s been a very different year,” Dobbs says. “The bestsellers this year have been anything that involves the whole family and creates bonds, such as arts and crafts. Puzzles have been in big demand, especially by adults. Science, technology, engineering, art and math [STEAM], and science, technology, engineering and math [STEM] activity toys are continuing to sell well.” Prices in the store range from $4.99 for impulse-buy items like yo-yos, to $250 or $300 for collectables. Midrange items include LEGO sets for around $49. Toys appropriate for every developmental milestone are offered, including books, BRIO trains and Fat Brain Toys products. Although the store is located within the interior plaza of the Carmel City Center, it is readily accessible and parking is typically easy to find. From City Center Drive, customers can park on the plaza level. The underground garage is accessed from Range Line Road or City Center Drive. Veterans Way garage is another parking option. “Our toys aren’t just one-and-done, but can be used and played with over and over,” Dobbs says. “I love that they bring families closer together. Everyone, no matter their age, should play every day. That aspect of our lives should be celebrated. It keeps people young and sharp.” Kits & Kaboodle Classic Toys is located at 723 Hanover Place in Carmel. For more info, visit KitsAndKaboodleToys.com or call 317-566-8101.