Peoria STOREia Gift Shop Hours
Open during Regular Hours
No admission required for Gift Shop only visits!
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 9am – 12pm
Wednesday-Saturday: 9am – 4pm
Sunday: 12pm – 5pm
“Play is the work of the child.”
–Maria Montessori


Only $40 — all proceeds support continued programs that inspire creativity and curiosity in kids across Central Illinois.
Designed in partnership with Bremer Jewelry and Dee Berkley Jewelry this vibrant bracelet features colorful beads and a custom Peoria PlayHouse charm – symbolizing the imagination, energy, and community we’ve built together.
If play is the work of the child, toys are the tools.
The right toys can help children:
- Figure out how things work
- Pick up new ideas
- Build muscle control and strength
- Use their imagination
- Solve problems
- Learn to cooperate with others
Toys are also just plain fun!
With a world of toys available, WHAT and HOW do you choose? Different types of toys engage children in different styles of play, helping them to develop the skills they will need in the future.
Toy Categories + the Skills they help Children Develop:
Building Systems
Give your child a toy that helps them invent new worlds! Building toys also increase small motor skills and teach problem-solving.
Infant Toys
Toys for very young children help with basic skills like object permanence, small motor coordination, and an understanding of shapes and connections.
Imaginative Play
Imaginative play is a great way for kids to gain mastery of their worlds and create new imaginary stories and spaces.
Tools for Exploration
Give your child a toy that helps them explore the world around them.


