The Most American Small Business Book Store I've ever been to. Owner/Operators and employees are educated, knowledgeable, honest and sincere. read more

Reach and Teach is truly a local gem and one of the most inspiring shops on the Peninsula. They offer a carefully curated mix of progressive books, educational toys and games, eco‑friendly products, and other high‑quality gifts you won't find in big box stores. Every visit feels like a treasure hunt--you'll discover something meaningful, fun, and thoughtful. The two owners are not only super friendly but also deeply civic‑minded, always ready to share knowledge and support community causes. Their passion for education, sustainability, and social justice shines through in everything they do. If you're looking for a place that combines heart, purpose, and great finds, Reach and Teach is a must‑visit. read more

I'm the cool Auntie amongst my married friends. And as the cool Auntie, I need to also supply their babies and kids with equally cool toys and gifts. Alas- I've found a store that encompasses all of this and so much more! I chanced upon this store via google and am so happy I did. The store has a wide array of gifts from books, puzzles, toys, plushies, clothing and more to satisfy everyone's taste and imagination. I usually don't have a hard time shopping, but since there were so many great options, the decision process was harder than usual. Thanks to the help of the owner, Derrick who was ever so patient as I traversed the inventory for fun toys that were easily transportable as these were accompanying me on a trip, I was able to grab a few noteworthy items to share with my friend's kids. All of the books and toys in this store encourages a sense of learning and ignites curiosity that appeal to all ages (Heck, there were even some puzzles that I had trouble figuring out on my own ha!). Parking was easy and free along the street. I'd highly recommend anyone who is looking for a great, memorable, character building gift to come here. Grateful to find a go to store now and appreciate the attentiveness of Derrick and all this store has to offer. read more

The first thing you'll appreciate is the service. The owners are friendly and incredibly knowledgeable about everything they sell. Next, it's the selection. These aren't just toys, games, and books; they've got the best toys, games, and books curated for developing and broadening minds of all ages. They don't just sell what's hot, they sell what's good. I'm not sure who enjoys going more, my 4 year old son or me! read more

This store defies retail gravity. It has a strong sense of purpose and mission, but it's a joy to explore and shop inside. If you like Five Little Monkeys you'll be happy here. If you like Barnes & Noble or Kepler Books, this place will feed your soul. If you miss Maker Faire or are passionate about STEM's importance for kids and for our country, this store will make your inner cynic quiet. If you're old enough to remember The Nature Company and its great stores before Discovery bought/ruined them, this store will refresh you. Great assortment of products. Well merchandised. Fairly priced. And if my brief interaction with the co-owner is any indication, this is a store that is making a difference in the San Carlos, SM County, Bay Area and the world. Bravo gentlemen! May you thrive in your efforts to give back to the community and the world. We notice, and we're grateful! Full disclosure - I'm a retail nerd. At cocktail parties I'm the guy who stays late talking about product assortments, ad strategies etc if anyone will endure such mundane discussions. I've designed, manufactured and sold products to a long list of specialty retailers. read more

Reach and Teach - World's sexiest composting kit. - Bookstores Near Me - San Carlos, California

Hands down the most awesome store in San Carlos. They have a little bit of everything! Great place to go for gift shopping for people of any age. They have kids toys and books, they have jewelry and various cool things from different countries for adults, books for adults, they have eco-friendly kitchen stuff, chocolates and teas from different countries. They also have tea in the store to try (towards the back).. what a nice touch! I'm all about supporting local! I got a sponge cloth that is biodegradable and saves 15 rolls of paper towels for 8 bucks (same product was just advertised to be on Instagram for $35). read more

Reach and Teach - Sponge cloth and general purpose cloth for the kitchen, coconut milk chocolate :) - Bookstores Near Me - San Carlos, California

Five stars is too few for this sacred space! If you're lucky enough to visit or even just its website you will agree! Service is also too small a term for the staff and ownership here! Two of the most genuinely nice people own, lead and Shepard this store. The selection is life affirming, heart rending, and mild blowing! In general terms tailor made for world changers, change agents and people wanting meaningful diversion and selfless escape. Value? As I stumble for a fitting term let me say any term I pick for this is sizes too small as any limited term is surpassed. Every item is fairly priced for creators, supply chain and staff. I will say as others have said on Yelp, Reach and teach defies and redefines the possibilities of retail, while never leaving its mission to change the world through each moment of discovery! Thank you Reach and Teach for everything you have done with my family for our community and changes you make to improve our world every day! Full disclosure: I owe so much to this store its owners and its staff for the past 12 years for all sorts of reasons. read more

Reach and Teach - My little boy on another amazing visit to Reach and Teach!! - Bookstores Near Me - San Carlos, California

Great service, variety of products ranging from books, toys to eco friendly housewares. Would come here again soon

I have been going to this toy store for the last 3-4 years, from San Mateo to San Carlos. That's ok! I love the professional service and the quality of products they have for my grandkids ages 10- newborn. Let's support this business, I try to avoid amazon but I know sometimes we're on the losing end... read more

Craig and Derek have created a wonderful spot for finding unique gifts, toys and educational materials for both regular, and adult, children! Both owners are so friendly, kind and helpful. What a breath of fresh air compared to empty video games or TV that don't teach or encourage curiosity! read more

Want a unique gift for a 3-year-old or 101-year-old? That they will actually cherish and enjoy? This store is magical, most likely because every item has been thoughtfully curated by the owners. read more

This is such a fabulous local bookstore! The owners are extremely kind and helpful, and there's so much to discover in the shop. I think there's something for everyone here, and it feels cozy and joyful the way a bookstore should. read more

Love this shop. I admit I am an avid Amazon Prime shopper but supporting small local businesses like this one is what differentiates the city and gives pockets of San Mateo its charm. The owners here are extremely nice and knowledgeable. The service is too notch. Incredibly unique selection of gifts and books for kids of all ages all for very reasonable prices. I am sure you could save a few dollars by finding the same items on Amazon but as the owners take special care to curate the items...why would you not support them. read more

BEWARE! You will spend far more than you had planned because Reach and Teach is THAT awesome :-) R&T is the kind of place where you keep finding things to add to the pile for checkout. In a day of specialization, R&T offers a wonderfully diverse selection of items that are all about care, justice, love, and healing. Whether you need a book for any age and topic, a toy that is environmentally and developmentally awesome, or a whimsical item to express goodness in the world, you will find it here! Lastly, the owners Craig and Derrick, are the epitome of small business owners who are invested in the community and committed to their local clientele. While they have a robust online ordering system, their connection to the people who enter the store makes this place special! Get there today! read more

It's been a while since I've been here, the store is an institution worthy of a greater rate of visits. It's an inspiring visual display of creativity and ingenuity while also triggering the youthful memories we have and wish to pass onto our kids. There's an aura of humility created by the owners with their unique items that are not found online. My kids love this place! Point for dad! read more

See all

Wonderful store that adds tremendous value to our neighborhood. Very thankful to have them.

Very fun and unique store. Terrific games, toys and books that are well curated. Easy to order online and they will deliver to you personally! We bought the cardboard arcade, a beautiful Japanese looking game and a couple of other interesting games I hadn't seen elsewhere. The owners select each of game and toy. You can ask them how to play any of the games and they can explain it to you. We can't wait to visit again - my kids and I look forward to making more interesting discoveries! read more

Lovely gift shop/bookstore/toy store on 25th Ave! I was looking for a retirement gift for my mom and wanted to give her a gift that will keep her brain active, such as puzzles and/or brainteasers. The customer service at Reach and Teach is impeccable; the helpful, young female employee helped me find a wooden Sudoku puzzle as well as a brainteaser game. Besides puzzles, Reach and Teach is full of books (for both adults as well as children), toys, and other gift items. The store also has a fantastic selection of greeting cards, including ones that are quite artistic and unique. Apple Pay is accepted! Highly recommend this local store with fantastic, warm service. read more

This store is a local treasure. It's my go-to for gift shopping and books, but it's also fun to pop in and browse! Everything has been carefully curated by the shop owners and they know so much background information on the items they carry. They have a wide assortment fun yet educational children's games and toys, beautiful puzzles, books, greeting cards, and also sustainable chocolates, soaps, and home goods. If you're unable to find a book you're looking for, they're able to order it and have it shipped directly to you. I always leave this shop in a very positive mood, the people who run it are very lovely humans! read more

We are so happy this shop moved even closer to us from San Mateo (which we would frequent) to San Carlos. They are full of unique books, puzzles and games, and everything can be a touched and explored right there. The owners and staff go out of their way to help you try everything with no pressure to buy but lots of fun. Our elem aged kids can spend hours here trying all the games, and we do always come home with something new and fun and educational. Highly recommend stopping by and adding this place to your list of unique gifts and puzzles for youngsters of all ages (and adults too)! read more

There is such a sense of connection and wellness as one walks through the door of this shop. The personal touch of the shopkeepers, the paradise of innovate toys (many on display) and support of social justice initiatives makes this one of a kind toy stores. We are so fortunate to have this store in our town of San Carlos. I think I love it more than my 9 year old!! read more

This store is a DELIGHT. It has a wonderfully curated collection of high quality toys for all ages, including Uncle Goose, a personal favorite. High quality puzzles and books, eco friendly products (not just toys, but cleaning products too) and what looked to be fair trade cocoas and chocolates. A gem of a store, the kind of place I wish I could spend all day in. The two gentlemen running it were helpful and knowledgeable and kind. My partner had to listen to me talk about how perfect it was all day yesterday, so I recommend it for anyone in the San Mateo area (or shopping online). I will be returning for gifts for my friends and family throughout the year. read more

This is the toy/book store that exists in fairy tales and dreams. So lovely and fun with the most amazing people running it.

Always a fun time at Reach & Teach! My husband and I spent three hours at the mall, unable to find presents for our little nephew and nieces. We checked off half of our list within 10 mins of walking into Reach & Teach! The owners are always so helpful and knowledgeable about their products. Also don't need to think whether or not something is sustainably and responsibly made --- majority (if not all) of their inventory fit the criteria. They also do home product refills and have products to help you transition to a more sustainable lifestyle. Def one of our favorite stores! Oh and they also told us that they're moving to San Carlos by January 2023. read more

When my sons are not sure what to get when going to a birthday party, we head over to our favorite toy store. The owners could not be more helpful, friend and knowledgeable. The have water and tea to enjoy when looking for the perfect toy, game or book and we appreciate their bags that they decorate with cut outs of landscapes. I also enjoy picking up a gift certificate if we just can't choose. I believe in supporting small business and this one goes above and beyond service. read more

This store and the owners are fantastic and I adore their vision. The shop has wonderful toys that can be passed down generations and still be fun. My grandchildren are growing up faster than I can keep up. I've recently passed on the web site so they can discover and select what they want for upcoming birthdays, especially at this covid time we are all living through. Best gifts in town and a way to support a local business. read more

This store has a thought out and eclectic variety of stimulating children's activities and toys. Even some random adult things, like honey and cute butter dishes. The owners are very sweet and stayed open a few minutes late for me while I looked for some books. They know the children's books so well and definitely had great suggestions when I told them what topics I wanted to teach my kiddos about. The books are really a curated collection of art, both in their illustrations and wide range of topics. I picked out one about sitting with anger, and another about loss. (There's silly stuff too, don't worry ;) They also have puzzles, kids games, cute felt finger puppets, kid's electronic boards. Wish I lived nearby! read more

One of our favorite local businesses! The owners' knowledge and enthusiasm is contagious and truly unparalleled. It's so inspiring to be in the presence of someone living their calling! You can't help but feel like a kid again in this unique toy store. They have adult items too! Prices are very reasonable. Make a visit -- you'll be delighted and leave with at least one fun toy and a full heart! read more

Recently I've been bummed that some of my favorite small businesses have closed. And I didn't notice that Reach and Teach opened 7 months ago. It's a super cool store with a great vbe, next to Kobeya. They have fair trade chocolate out for sampling (nice touch!), books, gifts (some fair trade), games, and more. It's displayed in a nice, accessible, feng-shui way. I noticed a child's "Build a Robot" gift that earned the Dr. Toy award, and was curious about it. The guy working there (owner maybe?) asked if I'd like to see what it looked like inside. Why, yes, I would. It wasn't at all what I expected, so it's great that he demos toys. This is old-fashioned customer service, the kind you can't get in a big chain store. The Science Math Geeky Fun was a cool section. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/reach-and-teach-san-mateo?select=Fm4EDeBj2Uwlebve3y0D0A#CMOOhRIGQVCPGglxGHvBNw It had solar kits and things that I would want for my son or his buddies. Businesses like these are why I Yelp. I'll be back when I need a gift or want to browse again. I want this store to survive. It's fantastic. read more

See all

Fabulous local shop with very kind owners. All products are consciously and carefully chosen and I loved the variety of inclusive children's books. Also a wonderful selection of toys, games, and our toddler's favorite - trains! We will be back, and then back again! read more

This store is my first choice when it comes to buying cool birthday and holiday gifts! They have awesome toys and fun games. Many of them you can play with. Every time we step in to this store we were having such a great time that we didn't want to leave. But it is not just a toy store, it also carries books, gifts, jewelry, crafts, organic chocolate, oliver oil, soap and more. Come check it out yourself! Enjoy their complementary chocolate and tea and have a fun afternoon here. read more

See all

I needed to find a gift for an eight year old girl. Both of the staff in the store were incredibly helpful and knowledgeable and showed me lots of great options, from arts and crafts to jigsaw puzzles to games. I ended up choosing a game which looks really fun. The staff member demonstrated it to me. Wonderful service, incredible selection, and reasonable pricing. read more

This may come across as a typical run of the mill kid's store, but I can assure you as a fully grown man it's not. It's catered to both kids and an adult's inner child. The shop has a plethora of gifts, toys, and novelties that will tickle even an adult's fancy. Such a fantastically well thought out store, and it's honestly a hidden gem of San Mateo. I highly recommend visiting. read more

Hidden treasure in San Mateo for toys, books and unique gifts from around the world. Fair trade products...awesome! I support that and this store. Bought this book for a 2 year old. Derrick helped me pick it out. He provided excellent service. Will be back for sure. read more

Reach and Teach - Gift for a 2 year old - Bookstores Near Me - San Carlos, California

The thing I love about the two owners is that I can walk in and say, "I need something for a 4 year old boy" and they take me back and show me several options. They clearly know what they have and can tell me about a book or demonstrate a game. My grandkids have loved everything I've bought for them at Reach and Teach. Highly recommended. read more

Today I stumbled upon this lovely hidden gem of a shop. A shopping experience after my own heart! Lots of treasures to be found - fun and educational at the same time. Local makers are featured as well as fair trade products from around the world. Spoke to Derrick, who was super warm, informative and welcoming. Will definitely be back to support this local gem anytime I'm shopping for gifts for the many littles in my life, rather than giving my $$ to big box and online stores. read more

Reach and Teach is our go-to store for gifts, games and books for ourselves, our friends, our kids and their friends. Every trip has been a delight like my kids discovering a new book series (e.g. Hilo) or puzzle game. I live down the street so it's an easy walk but would definitely make the trip here even if they were further away. Derrick and Craig make shopping so easy. read more

reach and teach is a institution in san mateo. they are sincerely green, environmentalist, just wonderful people. great product selection. san mateo misses them - now in san carlos :-( read more

Very cute store packed with educational and conscious raising toys and books. Owners are welcoming and know their wares. Very happy to stumble upon such a gem of a store. Support local small business! read more

What a great find on 25th Ave!! Lovely, interesting games, such as wooden puzzles with interesting shapes and gears. Great stocking stuffers in here. They also have a lot of fair trade toys. read more