Today I don’t write about real estate in Brookline, MA, but about my other passion: shopping.

Shopping for children can be most challenging, yet fun and gratifying experiences. For a gift guide for anyone and a well organized shopping plan, turn to Pragmatic Mom’s post on the 12 Days of Shopping. Then find the right stores.

It may be hard to beat prices of online and in big chain toy stores, but you can’t compare the shopping experience to your local independent toy store. You find several of these fine shops in and around Brookline, MA. Regardless of the holiday you celebrate, chances are you have to go to a toy store, so try one of these fine establishments and make it an adventure for the kid in you.

Magic Beans.

For toys and baby gear, Magic Bean is a well established Brookline, MA store, located in the heart of Coolidge Corner. It has a space for the kids to play so you can do you shopping in moderate peace. Although the store is a bit crammed at times, the staff is extremely helpful.

Location: 312 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA Phone: 617.264.2326 Online: mbeans.com Twitter: @mbeans

Henry Bear’s Park.

Huge store in Brookline Village with an excellent selection of toys for all ages. There are several areas for play – a train, dolls, and reading area. The store is well organized and can suck you in for hours. Bring your little one with you for an opportunity to choose toys and books together.

Location: 19 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA Phone: 617.264.2422 Online: henrybear.com Twitter: @henrybearspark

Irving’s Toy and Card Shop.

Step into a time machine and visit the 50’s in this old-style toy store run by Ethel Weiss since 1939. Take your kids with you, or leave them at home for some real fun. This is your spot to pick up small toys, candy, and delight the little kid in you. It’s a must! Irving’s is located in Coolidge Corner, across from the large Kehillath Israel synagogue.

Location: 371 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA Phone: 617.566.9327

Boing! Toy Store.

For interesting wood toys and earth friendly play things, take a trip to Jamaica Plain’s Boing! There is plenty of room to play and great staff. There is a 20% discount on any toy you buy for the toy drive, a great idea and an opportunity to teach kids to make a difference for other kids.

Location: 667 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, MA Phone: 617.522.7800 Online: boingtoys.com Twitter: @boing_jp_toys

Stella Bella Toys.

With locations in Cambridge, Dedham, the trip from Brookline is worth it. This is a favorite spot for my girls as we visit the Legacy Place in Dedham location often. The selection of crafts, dolls and trains far exceeds what you expect in a small urban space, and they still leave plenty of room for play. Stella Bella also has a free gift wrapping station!

Location: several including Davis Square, Inman Square and Legacy Place. Phone: (617) 491-6290 Online: stellabellatoys.com

Kids R Kids.

Packed with toys of all kids for all ages, this West Roxbury, MA toy has something for everyone. It seems every time I pass by it the large shop’s window is calling me for another visit. If you come with children, there is a large train table for play, but otherwise the store is not ideal if you have a running toddler with you. Plenty of parking, located across the West Roxbury branch library.

Location: 1952 Centre Street, West Roxbury, MA Phone: 617.323.3991

Eureka! Puzzles.

For older kids and adults who love puzzles and games, go to Eureka! Puzzles in Coolidge Corner. Mechanical puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and every kind of toy to exercise your mind. You’ll find gifts in all price ranges and probably end up buying something for yourself.

Location: 1349 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA Phone: (617) 738-7352 Online: Eurekapuzzles.com Twitter: @eurekapuzzles.com

This post was inspired by my recent Hannukah shopping sprees which I enjoyed immensely. One of he great things about living in Brookline, MA is the selection of independent local stores offering wide selection and superior shopping experience.

If you are shopping for a bigger ticket item, like a house or condo, you can search my database for homes for sale in Brookline, MA