In addition to being a playful element, a toy is a social construct and a tool that helps children learn and communicate. It is not for nothing that many psychological tests consist of children acting out stories using toys as characters in order to understand their fascinating inner world.

Such is its importance and so ingenious are the creations of the Mexican toy that exists in Saint Michael he Toy Museum which is a must-see thanks to its impressive collection of toys. Year after year and with government support, they have held the “National Popular Mexican Toy Competition” since 2011.

The purpose of this contest is to investigate, document, promote and disseminate popular games and toys throughout the country. The handmade toys and games represent the breadth and diversity of each community, as well as social values and our Mexican sense of humor. Thus, both the playful object and the representations that show and demonstrate a traditional game are valid in this contest.

It is of utmost importance to recognize the artisanal makers of these objects that provide so many hours of entertainment to Mexicans and to recognize their art as Mexican cultural heritage.

The categories go as follows:

-Pottery: Pieces made with natural clay

-Dolls and textile dolls: Woven or embroidered pieces

-Plant fibers: with hard and semi-hard fibers.

-Metalworking: with iron, copper, bronze, tin or molten lead.

-Maque and lacquer

-Wood and wood carving

-Musical instruments: string, wind and percussion. 

-Paper and cardboard

-Miniature: up to 7 centimeters

-Various: materials such as bone, horn, shell, snail, coconut, coyol, chilte, stone, wax and alfeñique.

Each of these categories will select the top three winners and award cash prizes for their talented creators to use as they see fit.
The call can be found at Corner Museum who are also celebrating 13 years of existence and at Local Guide we wish them the best of luck in this which is no child's play!