From September 1, 2026, a new core curriculum for preschool education will come into force. Under it, institutions will be required to organize eleven mandatory educational experiences. One of them may come as a considerable surprise to parents and teachers.
Plastic toys will be put away
For at least 10 consecutive days, every child will have to independently construct their own toys from various materials, including those obtained through recycling. This means that during this period, classic dolls, building blocks and toy cars may disappear from the children’s sight.
The Educational Research Institute even recommends putting traditional toys away or significantly reducing their number for the duration of this experience. The aim is to motivate children to demonstrate creativity and resourcefulness.
What exactly is changing?
The new core curriculum provides for the implementation of eleven mandatory educational experiences that develop children’s practical skills and social competencies. Seven of them—including experiencing art, observing nature, growing plants and organizing performances—will be required once in each school year. The remaining four experiences, including creating toys, are to be completed at least once during the entire preschool education period.
What is the purpose of all this?
Supporters of the changes emphasize that independently creating toys is not only great fun, but above all an valuable developmental experience. While constructing their own toys, children develop their imagination and manual skills, learn to cooperate and build stronger relationships within the group. The experience is to be prepared together with the children and parents, who can help collect recyclable materials—boxes, caps and newspapers.
When is the best time to do it?
The core curriculum does not impose a specific time of year, but experts recommend spring or the period before the holidays as the best time to complete this task. These are times when children are most open to creative activities, and collecting recyclable materials is easier.
Parents and guardians should prepare for their children to return home with household recyclable materials and handmade toys which—we hope—will bring joy and pride long after the mandatory experience has ended.