Learning Express Toys

Thank you for a wonderful toy store with friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Looking for just the right gift? Learning Express packs a lot of variety into a small space, with lots of selection, good quality and the latest in innovative toys.
The staff know the stock and are extremely helpful and efficient. If you need just the right thing, but are not sure of the name or want to know «Is there even a toy that does THAT?» check with LE.
Here is my story: We do not even live in the area, but this Learning Express location just helped us coach a relative through the purchase of a birthday present. The relatives were not sure what to get, were short on time, but sincerely wanted to give something that would be «just right.» I called around, and the Learning Express employee was helpful and knowledgeable… Yay! I was able to direct our friends there, and they were able to quickly pick out something fun without feeling like they totally pawned off the gift purchase on moi.
Everyone is happy! (and that 5 year old will be much happier to get something from Learning Express than a some new undies and a polo shirt… C’mon you have all been there!
So, let’s hear it. three cheers for Learning Express, Glen Ellyn!

The place is crowded with kids running all over (where are the parents?) high prices, RUDE employees. I’d rather go elsewhere.

There’s a kid in our life, and we’re always on the lookout for cool, educational and interesting toys for him as he gets older. Sure, there are big-​box stores closer to us, but I am all about patronizing the little guys when I can.
Learning Express is a great little toy store. They seem to have a good age range from toddler on up to tween, including outdoor toys, seasonal stuff, Legos, building kits, craft kits and more.
The clerks are helpful without being pushy, and they offer free gift wrap (although we did not take them up on this — my husband loves (loves!) to wrap presents).
Things do tend to cost a little more than, say, Toys R Us, yes, but they have coupons in the local flyer sometimes and the service is great. Plus, you can’t go wrong shopping local.

Years ago I would have definitely given this place 5 stars for the quality toys that they carried. I got my older boys some great unique items here. They have lots of Thomas stuff, Darda cars and Playmobil items. They used to carry TONS of outside toys, but that supply has dwindled. Lots of room in the store is taken by the plastic bins that hold items that kids have on their birthday registry.
Alas, now it has lots of plastic stuff that they will write your name on and charm bracelets and craft kits (mostly girl stuff). The store is so crammed full of stuff you can’t bring a stroller in there and forget about containing your kid. He/​she will walk around and probably end up by the train table.
They have a frequent buyer program which gives you a $ 15 credit after you spend $ 300, they gift wrap for free and they have a gift registry. Those are all good things, but I just can’t get past the infiltration of too many girly/​princess-​like items and the absence of toys that get you outside.