Forget conventional board games or mind-numbing video games, because toys that require a bit of hard work and creativity are making a comeback.
Do-it-yourself toys made a major statement at the Hong Kong Toy Design Competition 2005 winners' announcement ceremony yesterday.
The 'Slurry Craft Paper Maker', winner of the student category (tertiary), can help children become more creative through making recycled paper in all shapes, sizes and textures.
The toy was designed by Cathy Ho Hiu-wai, 23, who is finishing a degree in product design from the University of Central England through the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education.
'I thought making a toy that made of recycled paper would be a lot more meaningful than a normal toy. It's safe, fun and easy to use and will also teach kids the importance of protecting the environment and saving resources.'
The competition was jointly organised by the Institute for Enterprise of Polytechnic University and the Toys Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong.