I grew up partly before 1989, when there were literally no toys for kids to buy in Poland, and the only places you could buy from were commission sales of used articles, the so-called “komis”. This is where I got my favourite toy, a pink plush hippo, which I still keep to this day. No wonder I am a great fan of all the kids’ glitter, colourful clothing, books and gadgets.

Hlonda 6 in the Wilanów district has it all. From wooden toys to trendy apparel to accessories for children (and parents), from cosmetics to bags and rucksacks. The first time I visited I especially loved the small wooden musical boxes from Wonderful Life, Maileg mice toys and Tekla kids’ rain apparel – lovely tiny wellingtons, raincoats and jackets, as well as beanies and hats.

The prices are not low but you can be sure you are buying beautiful objects of great quality. If made of plastic, it will be sustainable plastic produced in the EU and not some low-cost material. I hope your eyes sparkle just like mine do when you enter this kids’ paradise!