Indigo Laval
Address: 900 Le Corbusier Blvd., Laval
Telephone: 450-686-4801
Hours: Saturday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Wednesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Even though kids these days seem most attracted to books about their favourite TV characters, taking them to a book store still feels like a wholesome family activity. On winter days when we are sick of snowsuits, the kids’ section at Indigo/Chapters beckons.

Parents Feel Welcome
We were happy to try the new Indigo in Laval recently, which opened in the fall. Everything is bigger in Laval, and the Indigo kids’ section is no exception. Like most newer Indigo/Chapters stores, the kids’ sections actually make parents and children feel welcome. They don’t mind if we read the books and try out the toys. They don’t give us dirty looks for hanging out because we don’t have anything better to do. So, parents, grab a coffee at the on-site Starbucks – because chances are good that you’ll get the opportunity to drink it.

Places to Read Together
The Laval branch goes above and beyond the Pointe Claire Chapters and Brossard Indigo in terms of comfort: There are beanbag chairs, a giant multicoloured teacup where parents and kids can sit, plus a long table with several seats where kids can colour. Yes – colouring-book pages and crayons are provided! (When kids ran out, parents were able to get more by asking at the desk.)

Playtime and Storytime
Aside from having various locations for sitting and reading together, there’s a good ole’ Thomas the Train table, a mini kitchen, a plastic fruit and vegetable stand, and Plasma cars available for rides. The store also has employees read stories if there are lots of kids in the section; I was told that on weekends, story time would be held at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. We were able to stay around an hour, reading books and exploring all the activities.

The bathrooms (with changing tables) are conveniently located at the back of the children’s section. There are several restaurants in the surrounding shopping centre if you need a bite to eat. Another bonus: Indigo Laval is one of the few places open at 9 a.m. on Saturdays – great for those mornings when the kids pry your eyes open at 6 a.m.

Related posts:

1. Guided Tour: Laval Children’s Museum
2. Guided Tour: Le Salon du Livre
3. Guided Tour: Thérèse Daviau Park