Constituent Spotlight: Carl Blake and Shelley Kramer

Carl and Shelley moved to Prospect Lefferts Gardens in 2006. They are the parents of Gabrielle (age 4) and William (age 2). Shelly worked for Jewelry Designer until she left the fashion industry in 2007 to become a Stay At Home Mom. While staying at home with her children, Shelley realized the need for more family friendly based resources in Prospect Lefferts Gardens, this put in motion the idea of Play Kids. It has always been Carl’s dream to own and operate his own business. After the birth of his two kids, he quickly realized the need for a quality toy store in the neighborhood. Play Kids is a reflection of the value Shelley and Carl place on having quality, smart, eco-friendly, educational and family oriented toys. In addition to toys that encourage open ended play and cognitive development, Play Kids also offers classes and workshops for the entire family ranging from art & music classes to acting & writing classes. They will soon be offering workshops for adults. These workshops include, but are not limited to: Baby & Toddler Nutrition, Social & Behavioral Strategies for Children (Importance of Play), and a New Parent Basics Series. Carl and Shelley are committed to using Play Kids to promote a sense of community, family, education and play They wish to be viewed as a community hub for all of Prospect Lefferts Gardens and the surrounding community. Play Kids was honored to host Santa Claus and distribute gifts from him (and Senator Eric Adams) as he passed through on December 23rd. Carl and Shelley are collaborating with fellow residents of PLG for some exciting events coming this winter/spring. Play Kids is located at 676 Flatbush Ave (on the corner of Flatbush Ave and Westbury Court). For a complete list of classes and events at Play Kids please visit thier website www.playkidsstore.com. You can also follow them on facebook (www.facebook.com/PlayKidsStore)