Meet Rachel Harris of Discovery Toys in Lakeview

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Harris.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Rachel. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Discovery Toys has been an opportunity for me to run my own business that would also ensure I was on the front line in the development of my own children. I’m an ambitious, working mother of two (and soon to be three), who’s constantly balancing life’s priorities. Discovery Toys started as a hobby, ensuring I invested my time, energy & talent into the best play with my boys. It’s gradually developed into a home business. It’s a passion that allows me flexibility around life’s priorities while supporting my own children’s development and earning an income to support their future.

My mother was involved in the organization when I was a child, so I was naturally drawn back to the company when I began my own family. I love helping others find the best products to give the little ones in their lives a better chance to conquer their world.

Has it been a smooth road?
Overall, it’s been progressively building over time. As mentioned, it started as a hobby and a pursuit to ensure I was setting my own children up for success in the world. I’ve learned a LOT along the way, but have also tried to not take myself too seriously. The biggest obstacle is always time. As you build a business, it often can take away from your family time which is the one reason why I stated my business & want to protect.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Discovery Toys – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Discovery Toys specializes in premium learning products for newborns through school-aged children. Each Discovery Toys product incorporates layers of learning and a unique play experience designed to promote critical thinking and open-ended imaginary play. With safety and quality standards that exceed U.S. and Canadian national standards, Discovery Toys backs every product with a satisfaction guarantee. The company is nationally recognized and enjoys an excellent reputation in the industry and among parents and educators. Most Discovery Toys products are not available in retail stores. Headquartered in Livermore, California, Discovery Toys products are sold through Educational Consultants in the U.S. and Canada.

As an Educational Leader for DISCOVERY TOYS® it allows me to give back to the community through fund-raising opportunities with our outstanding toys. I have partnered with a few preschools in Lakeview/Lincoln Park area to help raise funds for toys for their classrooms. I’ve even donated my own commissions as part of the efforts. In addition, I do host in-home, Facebook & catalog parties to share our products with other moms. I also participate in various vendor shows through the year.

This is more than a business for me. It’s an investment into our collective future by ensuring our children’s development is a top priority.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love Chicago. I love the culture, the mentality of the people and the pace. I love being able to raise a family in a metro city environment where they can become cultured & self-sufficient.

On the other hand, the political decisions over the years have handicapped Chicago. I’m disappointed in our school systems & frightened by the rise in crime in our neighborhood.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.discoverytoys.com/RachelHarris
• Phone: 847-682-2872
• Email: rachelsteuryharris@gmail.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachelsteuryharrisDiscoveryToys/

Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.