Have you ever wondered, among the countless modern choices, whether traditional toys still hold a place in children's hearts? In an era when technology continues to advance, children are easily drawn to screens on their smartphones or tablets. But there are simple, rustic toys that have captivated many generations, offering entertainment while carrying deep cultural value. Traditional toys are not only the childhood memories of parents, but also a precious gift for children to learn, develop their minds, and nurture a love for their homeland.
Now, parents, please join Mykingdom in discovering standout traditional folk toys, the value they bring, and how to bring traditional culture closer to today’s children.
What are the eight traditional toys?
1. Mid-Autumn lanterns
When talking about traditional toys, one cannot overlook the Mid-Autumn lanterns. From star lanterns, to marching lanterns, to spinning lanterns, they all bring simple joy to children each Mid-Autumn Festival. A special feature is that the lanterns are usually made from bamboo, cellophane paper, or reinforced paper, creating a warm, twinkling light.
Parents can find many safe, durable lantern designs for kids, preserving the tradition while featuring modern designs, suitable for children to carry lanterns with friends.
2. Paper-mâché masks
During lantern processions, children often enjoy wearing masks of Ông Địa, Chú Tễu, or other folk characters. Paper-mâché masks are a traditional handcrafted toy, with rustic forms that spark rich imagination.
Today, parents can fully help children experience these masks that are safe and highly artistic, so the child can play while learning about folk characters.
3. To He (clay figurines)
One of the traditional toys that captivates children is To He. From colored glutinous rice flour, skilled artisans craft buffalo, chickens, or even lively cartoon characters.
Even in modern times, children are excited to play with To He in many colors. For children, To He is not only a toy but also a lesson in dexterity, creativity, and the value of handmade work. And parents can become artisans by making at home or using safe modeling clay from Mykingdom to create famous To He characters.
4. Lion head, lion-dancer head
This toy carries the meaning of inviting wealth and luck; with the playful lion head and the lion-dancer head, the whole family can join the child in a lion dance to the lively beat of drums to create an unforgettable experience.
5. Frog drums, Boi drums
The beating of the drums goes “tùng tùng” and echoes through streets every festival season, a memory hard to forget. Frog drums and Boi drums are small, easy to play traditional toys familiar to many generations. Children play while feeling the rhythm and learning to fit in with the group.
6. Ô ăn quan
If parents have ever spent summer afternoons playing Ô ăn quan with friends, they will understand the value this game brings. Ô ăn quan helps train mathematical calculation, strategy, and patience for children. This is a traditional educational toy that helps kids play while developing logical thinking.
7. Jump rope, hopscotch
Not only intellectual games, traditional toys also include physical activities like jump rope and hopscotch. These games require no fancy equipment, but offer children the chance to build health, agility, and teamwork.
8. Ludo
Ludo has been a popular game from ancient times to the present, usually played with friends and family. It is not only a pastime but also an opportunity for the family to gather and bond. As a traditional toy, Ludo helps children develop strategic thinking while learning to share and wait for their turn.
Mykingdom currently offers a safe, attractive, cardboard version of Ludo, suitable for children aged 6 and up.
What benefits do traditional toys offer for children?
Traditional toys are not just simple entertainment. They bring many surprising benefits to children's holistic development.
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Develop thinking and creativity: When playing with To He and paper-mâché masks, children can freely create, choose colors and shapes as they like.
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Build dexterity and patience: Handmade toys require meticulousness and patience when assembling or painting, helping children develop the dexterity of their hands.
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Cultural education: Traditional toys are a bridge that helps parents pass on a love of cultural values and patriotism for the country.
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Strengthen bonding: Folk games help children learn teamwork, sharing, and bonding with friends and family.
In a modern world, returning to old values offers children a unique experience. Traditional toys are not only a source of fun but also a cultural bridge, teaching children about intellect, health, and love for their homeland. For parents, this is not only a way to bring joy to their child but also an opportunity to accompany them on a journey exploring a childhood rich in Vietnamese identity.
See more:
Don’t let your child grow up only with smartphone screens; let traditional toys help them experience the full joy of childhood!
Let Mykingdom accompany your family, bringing safe, meaningful, and inspiring traditional toys to your child.
