New York - November 08, 2006

The Uses of Enchantment

Enchanted Toys

Patience. Supposedly, it’s a virtue. Especially during holiday shopping season.

But, seriously, what’s so great about waiting in lines, or waiting for presents, or waiting to have fun?

Waitlist the Broadway shopping madness and speed over to the new Enchanted Toys, a not-for-profit boutique on the Upper East Side.

The once-tiny third-floor room has been transformed into a big, sunny temple of childhood delights, full of unique and classic gifts like ornate costumes, wooden train sets, cottage-industry dolls, props for playing everything from pretend dinner party (hand-crafted wooden fruit) to pretend Orlando-Bloom-as-Legolas (wooden bows and arrows). Not to mention a selection of educational books, delicate mobiles, and crafting supplies.

About three-quarters of the merchandise is imported from Europe. (You know, that Dora-free land of enchantment.) One hundred percent of the profits provide tuition assistance for students at the Rudolf Steiner School. (That’s just glorious.)

You may wonder why this hidden gem didn’t reveal itself sooner.

Though, in this case, it was worth the wait.

Enchanted Toys, 1179 Lexington Avenue, between 80th and 81st Streets (212-288-3383 or enchanted-toys.com).