When I first heard that Microsoft stores were family friendly, I figured that it was like most stores. Sure, you can bring your kids, but if the kids start touching anything (which they usually do), you get THE look. As a parent, it?s often easier to just not bring them. You moms/grandmoms, know what exactly what I mean.
But I recently had the chance to learn more about Microsoft stores and I was amazed at what I heard.
Microsoft stores bring family-friendly to a whole new level. These stores want you to bring your children or grandchildren to visit. And best of all, they encourage your kids to try out their products too! A store that encourages kids to touch? Where, in fact, ?nothing is off limits?? Um, can you say wow?! My kids would be in heaven!
Even rambunctious toddlers are welcomed (I asked because mine certainly fit that description!) And there?s room for strollers, which is a great plus too.
But it makes sense when you think about it. If you?re in the market to buy a new PC for the family, you?ll make a better choice if your whole family can try it out. And that?s what Microsoft wants you to do. Bring in the family and put the Microsoft PC to the test. Check out the new Surface tablet or Windows phone. Play games with Kinnect for Xbox 360.
In Store Family Events
The family friendly environment at Microsoft stores is pretty awesome and Microsoft takes it a step further with their free summer camps for kids. ?
Youth Spark summer camps begin on June 3rd and run Monday-Friday, two hours a day. Kids ages 8-13 will learn something new each day, including Digital Movie Madness, Digital Art Smart, Gamemasters, Storyteller Studio, and more.
Parents are encouraged to stay and have fun with their children, especially with the Tech Tots camp for ages 2-5. Toddlers and preschoolers will learn things like keyboard skills, fun with the Kinect system and more.
For camp locations and details, click here: Microsoft Stores Summer Camps.
There are 31 specialty Microsoft stores across the nation and 35 full-line stores (with more stores opening all the time) that include a state-of-the-art theater.
The theater area is open to the general public and you?ll have the chance to see first-hand the incredible fun you can have with Microsoft devices, like the Kinect. Theaters can be booked for birthday parties (yes, food and drinks are allowed) or group events.?As a homeschooler, I was thrilled to learn that they welcome homeschool groups! And it?s free!
Adults and teens will love the gaming events hosted by Microsoft stores. Whether your husband or teen is part of a gamer league or would simply love to try one of the newest Kinect Xbox 360 releases, it?s perfect for anyone who enjoys video games.
You can sign up or book an event simply by calling the store. Stores are happy to work with families and groups to customize an event just for you!
And as even more incentive to visit Microsoft stores, you could earn $500 toward Microsoft products if you hold six in-store events within 12 months! You could also receive coupons good towards products, like 5% off, etc.
Personal Training and the Answer Desk
Microsoft stores offer workshops and training sessions to help you get the most out of technology. Check out current workshops at your nearest store online or you can call to request booking your very own one-on-one session with an expert.
You?ll also get excellent customer service at the Answer Desk. They?ll answer your questions, walk you through setup of your devices (even if you bought it from another store!), trouble shoot, and even set up parental controls. ?If you have a simple question, you can walk in and ask. For hardware issues, you can easily call in to set up an appointment so you?ll have plenty of time.
You can also visit MicrosoftStore.com and chat with an online Answer Desk consultant to get your questions answered from the comfort of your home.
Looking for a new computer, tablet, or other device? Set up a personal shopping session with a Microsoft store. They?ll take the time to let you try out their technology first hand and help find the perfect fit for you and your family.
Join the Fun
I was also impressed to learn that Microsoft stores are committed to helping their local community too. From the beginning, each store does a lot of community partnership and local volunteering with places like the YMCA or helping Girl Scouts earn tech badges.
While I didn?t have a chance to visit a store (the nearest one is over an hour away from our small town location), I am crossing my fingers that one will open near me soon and we?ll go the first chance we get.
To check if a Microsoft store is near you, visit their store locator page.
1 lucky winner will receive a $100 Microsoft Stores gift card!
Rules:
This giveaway ends on May 27, 2013 at 11:59 pm EST.
Open to the US only, ages 18+.
Click?here?for complete rules and disclosure.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Source: http://musingsfromasahm.com/2013/05/enjoy-a-family-experience-at-microsoft-stores-gomicrosoft/
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