Our Story

The Children’s Treehouse began in Smithers, BC in 2001. Then the store was known as Robin’s Nest, named after the owner’s daughter. Like many small towns, Smithers did not have a place to buy children’s clothes. Many people had tried to sell kids clothes, but none ever stayed. As her children were still young, Alison decided to open a combined consignment and new clothes children’s store, just off the main street in Smithers.

After the first year, a larger store on the corner of her building became vacant and so Robin’s Nest moved to Main Street and became a fixture there for over 12 years. As the store grew, the inventory changed to encompass clothes, shoes, boots, accessories, books and toys. A kids store!!

In 2013 Robin’s Nest closed and The Children’s Treehouse was opened on Commercial Street in downtown Nanaimo. After 20 years of Smithers’ winters, Alison and her family moved to Nanaimo! Even though her children were now grown up, Alison still enjoyed children’s books and toys, so that became the focus of the new store in Nanaimo.

The store’s 2nd birthday is almost here and now we have a fully integrated online store available for those who can’t visit us.

The Children’s Treehouse is independently owned and is 100% local! We support many local charities, schools and family friendly events. The owner is active with the Downtown Business Association and is a member of the Chamber of Commerce.

All our stock is individually picked by the owner. There is a great selection from major brands as well as small independent suppliers. The books are all current and cover a wide selection of ages and topics. The owner is very knowledgeable and is always happy to recommend great stories!

Please come and visit us to play and browse our store!