KIDDYWAMPUS

HOPKINS, MN
VISIT WEBSITE

Holy right-brain implosion, Batman! I cannot even begin to tell you how much I love the newly-located, adorably-animated and colorful kiddywampus toy store and art studio. It’s possible that my bias is shining through as I stare up at the Fine Arts degree hanging on my wall. But, man, to be young and have this space to just let loose creatively? I would’ve given my left arm to have that growing up. Still now, as an art-loving adult with small Picassos of my own, I have this wonderful place just a hop away which allows them the sloppy, expressive outlet they need (while simultaneously making mom beam with pride), and best of all – the projects come home while the mess stays there.

What is it?

This art studio-slash-toy store opened its doors in 2006 in Edina and since then has moved to St. Louis Park and now (as of April 2) resides on the quaint Mainstreet of downtown Hopkins. Owner and mother of three, Amy Saldanha, started the business with the leading intention being to construct a place that didn’t abide by that shopping rule every parent dreads: “Don’t Touch That.” I spoke with Amy on my last visit and she is simply the sweetest business owner ever, with her heart obviously in it for the sake of your child’s confidence and creativity. She sat next to my son helping him glue and, while I was nervous to make a huge mess, she was pulling every art box off the shelf hoping to inspire him to try every medium they had available!

Winner of Citypages 2007 “Best Toy Store,” kiddywampus steals my heart for an even bigger reason: All after-tax profits from the business go directly toward children’s charities including: Make-A-Wish, Angel Foundation, Children’s Cancer Research Fund, Free Arts Minnesota, Books 4 Kids, Minneapolis Crisis Nursery and more.

kiddywampus hosts classes, birthday parties, and play groups. A full list of their events (including music and art) can be found on their website.

Fit for what ages?

The art studio is intended for kids ages 18 months to 10 years. My two-year old loved painting on the wall mural and my four-year old is now old enough to master sand art and even some of the weekly projects (with mom’s help). Bringing their projects home to be proudly hung around the house brings them both such joy! The toy store is perfect for all ages, with hands-on train sets, marble towers and Calico Critter houses. AND, kiddywampus has a kidsplay space for kids ages 0-6. The kidsplay area is filled with some of the store’s favorite toys, a book corner and building blocks – an ideal location for play dates. Speaking of ideal locations, someday I’m totally hosting a birthday party here (even if it’s for myself)!

How much are we talkin?

The art studio charges $8/kid per hour. This gives them free reign of all paper, paint, glitter, glue, colored sand, fabric and of course the project of the week (changes weekly). The kidsplay area is $5/kid per hour and allows them an hour to play freely and safely (read: freedom for parents to read, work or catch up on conversation). Under 5 months is free, as are adults. Additional siblings in the kidsplay area are only $2/kid.

The toys range in price, but the variety is so great. These are unique toys that you don’t find at just any big box toy store. Very few commercialized character items and more just solid, quality entertainment toys that keep your kid’s attention much longer than a simple Batman figurine. For this reason (and the fact that it is a small, local business) prices can be a little steeper than some toy stores, but you’re paying for well-crafted, distinctive items.

Want some tips?

Prefer a quiet visit to the store or studio? Come in after 1pm during the week. Weekends are busier, and obviously (for anyone who’s ever dealt with nap schedules) mornings tend to be crazier than afternoons. Have a kid with their heart set on some art or play time? I recommend calling for a reservation to assure your child time in the studio and kidsplay area. (Just trying to help you avoid that “disappointed kid” lower lip face we’ve all seen before.)

kiddywampus offers a variety of events and activities, including science, art and music classes, and summer camps (all ages and skill levels available). Their camps sound awesome and are themed so your child can choose one that appeals to them (themes include Legos, Star Wars, Fort-Making, and Princesses). How fun would it be to go to a fort-making summer camp?! I mean, seriously! Camps are 2-3 hours a day for three days, and the Lego one sells out fast. Get details and sign up here.

Birthday parties are themed as well. Choose from Legos, Jedi Training Academy, Pirates, Fairies, Princesses, and their ever-popular Action Jackson Party, where kids can paint like Jackson Pollock (including throwing paint at the wall…For REAL!? Yes. For real.) These book up 2-3 months in advance, and Fall is their busiest season, so do plan ahead.

kiddywampus is very accommodating when it comes to children with special needs, disabilities, food allergies, and all individual idiosyncrasies. I’m not kidding when I tell you their mantra is spot on when it comes to treating art, music and education like therapy for the child’s soul. Have I mentioned how much I love this place? 🙂

Hours and Location

1023 Mainstreet  |  Hopkins, MN 55343

kiddywampus hours are 10am – 6pm, 7 days a week

kiddywampus moved from its St. Louis Park location to downtown Hopkins. Street parking is free and very readily available. This location is also nice because you are surrounded by plenty of dining and shopping options, including Mainstreet Bar & Grill, Coldstone, Munkabeans Coffee and Big 10 Subs (nom nom). Shops worth stopping at are Nine Maternity Consignment and Baby Grand. Then, if the kids have leftover energy, hit up the Mann’s Theater for a $3 movie!

Follow kiddywampus on Facebook to see updated hours, weekly projects, and new inventory. They even post a variety of kids projects to do from the comfort of your own home.