A leading developmental psychologist warns that highly stimulating electronic toys can hinder creativity, emotional regulation, and early cognitive growth. The message, which gained renewed attention in a recent Parade feature, resonates for Thai families navigating a growing market of high-tech toys at home and in schools.
The core concern is toys that light up, produce sounds, or require minimal active engagement. Such features are common in many electronic products now popular in Thai households. The psychologist emphasizes that overly stimulating toys may undermine essential skills, a view supported by peer-reviewed research on child development and neurobehavioral outcomes.
Thai parents are experiencing a surge in electronic toy options, from interactive robot pets to toddler tablets. While manufacturers promise language, math, or STEM benefits, experts say design choices can displace meaningful parent-child interaction, a key driver of healthy emotional growth. Data from research in pediatric journals indicates that screen-based and battery-powered toys often reduce the quality and frequency of shared play moments, which are crucial for bonding and learning.
Advocates for open-ended play point to simple, traditional options—blocks, puzzles, sensory materials, and unbattery-powered toys. These tools encourage children to imagine, solve problems, and collaborate, laying a foundation for cognitive and social development. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that classic toys like construction sets and modeling clay can outperform electronic alternatives in supporting speech, motor skills, and creativity. For Thai families rooted in local traditions, handmade toys—such as coconut-shell creations, bamboo crafts, and fabric dolls—have long nurtured curiosity and dexterity.
Culturally, this guidance aligns with sanuk—a Thai value centered on joyful, playful living—and with family-centric play that brings together siblings, elders, and neighbors. Early childhood experts at Thai universities highlight the importance of involving kin and community in play to foster empathy and social awareness. In Thailand, where smartphone and tablet use is pervasive among households with young children, caregivers are balancing digital learning with hands-on activities to support development.
Public health campaigns in Thailand have echoed these concerns, promoting daily, unplugged, parent-led play as a cornerstone of early learning. While not all screen time is harmful, excessive exposure and passive use can crowd out richer experiences. Thai child psychologists note rising attention challenges and delayed speech in some preschoolers who spend substantial time with electronic toys and screens. In response, the Ministry of Public Health has advocated play-based development as part of broader child health goals.
Practical steps for families include scheduling uninterrupted, child-led play sessions without devices, and prioritizing non-electronic toys that invite imagination and collaboration. Grandparents—often central to caregiving in Thai households—can play a pivotal role by supporting these habits and modeling engaged play.
In education, Thailand’s early childhood curriculum is gradually shifting away from screens toward hands-on learning. Model preschools in provinces such as Chiang Mai and Nakhon Pathom now dedicate time for free play using blocks, sand, playdough, and natural materials to strengthen motor, language, and cognitive development.
The Thai toy market continues to grow, with industry forecasts suggesting steady expansion into the coming years. Experts advocate for a broader range of non-electronic, open-ended toys that reflect local culture and environments. Re-emerging Thai classics—such as spinning tops, reed instruments, and woven figures—offer familiar, culturally relevant play that supports essential developmental skills.
Looking ahead, the psychologist’s guidance could influence consumer choices and policy, especially through parenting programs and media outreach. If widely adopted, Thai children may benefit from a cultural shift toward prioritizing mental well-being, self-regulation, and creativity over the instant gratification of digital gadgets.
Actionable recommendations for caregivers:
- Audit the home toy selection and reduce passive, screen-based options.
- Emphasize regular, family play sessions with open-ended toys.
- Explore local markets for traditional and sensory play items.
- Advocate in schools for curricula that center hands-on, experiential learning.
Notes: This piece integrates insights from pediatric research and Thai educational and health institutions to provide contextually relevant guidance for Thai parents, grandparents, and teachers.