Business Q&A: Creative Child

In a world filled with large, mainstream toy stores, on Sunrise Highway stands alone. The 27-year-old store has an array of critical thinking games and other toys that promote education. Owner Marc Batkin is an experienced educator who knows the value of education-based recreation for children. Here, Batkin describes what makes Creative Child unique.

What kind of items do you sell?

All educational items. (We sell) both toys and teacher supplies.

How important is it for children to own games and toys that promote critical thinking?

Oh, 100 percent. It’s very important. I just came back from China to find out why there math was better than ours. The Chinese are ranked number one (in math) and we’re number five. I go to the universities and I go to the secondary schools and I see what they use and at what age. I bring back all these items for parents and teachers. They (parents and teachers) come here from all over the country.  

What services do you provide to teachers?

We sell bulletin boards, charts, workbooks and educational games. (This) makes it easier for them to teach, make lesson plans, and keeps them up to (their schools) standards.

What is your most popular item?

Any games that involve critical thinking.

What inspired you to open the store in 1985?

The (former owner) had a doctorate in Special Education and saw a need for this type of store.