COLLEGE STATION, TX — Bridget Mais, the owner of Learning Express Toys in College Station has turned to virtual storytelling to keep kids entertained through this pandemic.
She's used to kids running through the isles at her educational toy store, now that her doors are closed things have gone silent.
"This silence is really deafening and the heart and soul of my store are the kids that come by," Mais said.
Mais goes live on Facebook to read a few times a week and absolutely loves it.
"As long as I can stay connected to the kiddos and their families that's all that matters at this point," Mais said.
She even brought special guest, College Station Mayor Kyle Mooney, to join in on storytime.
"It keeps our young people thinking in positive ways and not just dreading of not having anything to do." Mayor Mooney said.
As we get through some of the toughest times Mayor Mooney hopes we remember the positive things after all this is over.
"They [community] can go back and say ya know what, this pandemic thing wasn't all bad," Mayor Mooney said.
Mais hasn't stopped at virtual storytelling, she even shops for her customers.
"I'll give them my personal phone number," Mais said. "And I'll take them through the store on Facetime, shopping for them."
She's had to make ends meet any way she can, as owning her own business has been her dream. Once the pandemic hit the Brazos Valley, she knew her dream went beyond her wants and needs.
"I'm really here just to serve my community and it's not about me, it's about what they need right now," Mais said.
Learning Express Toys will be back open Monday, May 4. They will have a limited number of customers allowed inside the store.
To join in on virtual storytime and a whole lot more, follow Learning Express Toys of College Station on their Facebookpage.
