Precocious Toys in Madrona is a trove of fun, well-made playthings like the ones you remember

I once had a tape recording of myself at age four telling my dad what I wanted for my birthday -- a Play-Doh fire station set and a Rub-A-Dub Dolly for the tubby. You could tell in my voice that I really had my heart set on them.

Today, I see that same all-consuming childhood longing in my daughter. And despite the temper tantrums and emotional storms that come with the terrible twos, having a toddler around reminds me how much fun it is to play with Play-Doh.

Precocious Toys in Madrona perfectly captures the giddiness of youth with its vast selection of toys for kids of all ages. Open since last October, the shop inhabits a colorful light-filled space on the south end of 34th Avenue, the neighborhood's main shopping street.

Owned by Monica and Gavin Coulter, Precocious Toys focuses on fun, durable and educational toys that inspire creative exploration. On every shelf and at every turn, I found a delightful toy, game or book that I wanted to bring home for my daughter, or buy as a birthday gift for one of her little friends. The store is organized by type of toy or game, with a section for musical instruments, dolls, trucks, horses and even medieval knights and pirates.

Precocious has an impressive array of toys and art supplies from Melissa and Doug, a wooden toy company that uses nontoxic materials in their manufacturing. I'm a sucker for cute little wooden food, and Melissa and Doug make a great sushi and sandwich making set (both $21.99). I found great party supplies, like the Wishosaurus, a purple dinosaur cake-topper that holds birthday candles ($6.50) and a retro Pin the Tail on the Donkey game ($10.99).

From marbles ($.10-$1.00) to magnetic checkers ($16.75), hula hoops ($3.75) to Breyer horses ($17.25), the fun goes on and on at Precocious Toys. Stop by on the first Thursday of every month for game night, and play the store's new and familiar games. There are games appropriate for all ages, so bring the whole family.

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