Toy Shopping? Try an Ugly Doll or Eco-Friendly Gift

Whether you need a unique gift for your hard-to-please nephew or several gifts and stocking stuffers for a houseful of children, Lucky Duck Toys in downtown Brighton is the perfect place for last-minute holiday shopping.

The specialty toy store, which opened in 2005, is bursting with toys that you won't find in your favorite superstore. Owner Karen Kukan believes in preserving traditional values and active play. Most of the games, gadgets and goodies in the store require imagination, not batteries.

For the newborns on your gift list, HABA products are the way to go. These durable toys are made in Germany from non-toxic and eco-friendly materials. Brighten your baby's day with a colorful wood clutch toy ($14.95) or a set of soft blocks ($34.95). If your tot's about to walk, hook him or her up with the HABA walker wagon ($171.95).

Surprise kids with the unexpected

Instead of a typical teddy bear, surprise older infants with an Ugly Doll ($10.95 - $49.95). They're cuddly, goofy-cute, and make great car companions for long trips to Grandma's house. Add the matching keychain ($6.95) and make your favorite Ugly Doll the family mascot.

Playmobil's nativity set ($19.95) and advent calendar ($29.95) help encourage toddlers and preschoolers to participate in holiday traditions. If your brood's a more industrious bunch, boost their creativity with a box of jumbo cardboard blocks ($39.99).

Kukan recommends LEGO sets ($2.95 - $79.95) as fail-safe gifts for school-aged boys. For girls, Orb Factory's sticky mosaics ($16.95 - $24.95) are popular this season.

The cold weather's just beginning, so do yourself a favor: stock up on gifts that keep family time fresh and fun. A stack of Mad Libs ($3.95 each) and a unique board game will help stave off cabin fever.

While you're at it, do us all a favor: Support the local economy this holiday season. Your kids and the city you call home will love you for it.

Lucky Duck Toys is located at 322 W. Main St. in downtown Brighton. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. They will be open from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Christmas Eve.

Tina DeBord is a mom, aunt, and former preschool teacher who recently moved to Brighton. As she explores the community, she will be sharing insights and information about parenting in the area. Watch for her column every Wednesday in Patch.