Call to save traditional toys

More than 300 traditional toys have disappeared from Thai society, a conservationist group said recently.

Rung Aroon Thai Toys Group coordinator Taweesap Namkajornroj said yesterday that traditional toys were becoming extinct because the urban lifestyle was taking over.

"Children are now addicted to the Internet and cellphones," he said, adding that wooden tops and bamboo frisbees used be very popular not so long ago, but they do not attract youngsters these days.

"You will only see these toys at demonstrations or special events," Taweesap lamented.

He said traditional toys were designed to help boost the development of children. "Toys that make a sound are good for children's hearing," he pointed out. Similarly, kites are good because they encourage kids to run.

Taweesap said these toys are part of Thailand's cultural heritage and people should help conserve them. Traditional games and toys will be on display at Nakhon Pathom's wax museum on Saturday, the National Children's Day.