I am of the age where fun was enjoyed without electrical power. So, when I buy gifts for children I go to the old standbys – games, puzzles, and books (OK… and some dolls for the granddaughters).

During the pandemic online shopping dramatically increased. Nothing, however, takes the place of seeing and touching. In Naperville, we’re fortunate to have great places to get gifts for children. Anderson’s is tops for books for all ages. And I was excited to discover a new store in town for games and puzzles.

TREASURES, owned and operated by Michael Kristula, is celebrating its first anniversary at 121 S. Washington Street in downtown Naperville. It offers toys, games, gifts and handmade goods. I was impressed with the variety of cooperative games from four-year-olds to six-year-olds and competitive games for older children.

The old standbys are there, but more importantly, there are unusual games that rarely are seen in the U.S. The Quoridor Strategy Game (an example which is set up in the store) is one Mike likes to play with his six-year-old twins.

So, what leads a man to open a toy store? Mike likes having fun. He was a magician. He did comedy, live theater and juggled. He really juggled! He still wants to break the Guinness Book of Records record for juggling and got up to 11 hours. Ask him for a demonstration sometime.

He believes that “games are super enjoyable” and he is always looking for things that you can’t find elsewhere.

Mike’s overall philosophy is simple: To bring entertainment that does not involve screens, but stimulates concentration, thought and creativity – actual activity.

The old teacher in me agrees. His store truly is a treasure and fun. Naperville is fortunate to have it.

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