Teachers, parents, children, grandparents - everyone finds something unusual at The Thinking Cap.

The old sign on New Castle Road with the beanie-copter on it said "Educational Supplies and Specialty Toys."

"Not everyone took the time to read that sign," said owner Carol Reed. "We've gotten phone calls questioning everything from day-care rates to what styles of hats do we carry. We are not a day care and we do not carry hats."

Last July we moved that shop to Point Plaza Shopping Center, making it easier for residents to discover our unique mix of product.

For almost nine years, teachers have found a huge selection of educational supplies at The Thinking Cap. The public seems to have the misconception that everything in the classroom is supplied for the teachers.

In actuality, a lot of the decorations, stickers, worksheets, nametags, games and flashcards are out-of-pocket expenses for the average teacher. The same is true for Sunday schoolteachers who look for bulletin board sets, activity books, rewards and stickers.

All of these items bring classrooms to life and contribute to the educational experience.

Games and puzzles, science kits and craft kits are at The Thinking Cap, and parents have found it to be a one-stop-shop for not only workbooks and flashcards but unique birthday presents as well. Many families run in on the way to the party.

With help from the friendly, knowledgeable staff, they can choose a gift, have it gift-wrapped for free and be on their way in no time.

Grandparents appreciate the quality of the toys found at The Thinking Cap. Lines like Thomas the Tank Engine Wooden Railway and Brio Trains come with a lifetime guarantee and stand the test of time. Playmobil captures every child's imagination and promises hours of creative playtime.

Remember Tickle Bee, the Uncle Wiggly Game, Erector sets and Silly Putty? How about lacing cards, floor puzzles and bead mazes? We've got those too.

The usual reaction of children as they enter our doors is "Wow!" Immediately they spy our two display tables. One is full of Thomas the Tank Wooden Railway and the other is full of Playmobil pieces. Both are there to be played with and enjoyed while parents browse the store.

Because we believe reading and math skills can be reinforced with games as well or even better than workbooks and flashcards, the staff at The Thinking Cap offers family game nights. Any elementary school, PTO or home schooling group may request this service.

Our staff will come to your school meeting with 10 to 20 games that help reinforce reading and math skills. Anytime you can make it fun and different, the kids are more likely to stay interested and motivated.

These game nights are an excellent way to pull families together for a while and away from the TV and computer. If you are interested, please call the shop for details. We can even provide you with flyers to copy and send home to parents.