On January 10, 2026, Thai PBS welcomed children and families for the National Children's Day celebration, hosting "Thai PBS Kids Day 2026: Small Power, Global Impact" in collaboration with government agencies, private sector partners, and civil society organizations. The event drew over 7,500 participants for a day of creative learning and environmental awareness activities.
"Media for Everyone" and "Media for Thai Children"
Mr. Vanchai Tantivittayapitak, Thai PBS Director General, opened the ceremony by reaffirming Thai PBS's commitment as "media for everyone," emphasizing the broadcaster's dedication to providing quality programming for children.
"Thai PBS gives tremendous importance to children and takes pride in producing original Thai children's programs that air on Saturday and Sunday mornings, including 'FUN Brigade,' 'Little Scientist's House,' 'KID RANGERS Think Tank Operation,' 'Kids Club,' 'Art Lesson,' and 'Rice Pot, Curry Pot,' among others," Mr. Vanchai said.
Reflecting on his own childhood inspiration, Mr. Vanchai shared: "Childhood is the happiest time of life and an age when we yearn for heroes. When I was young, my hero was 'Tiger Mask,' a cartoon about a wrestler who fought to help orphans, becoming a hero of that era. Today, I want every child to discover: Who is your hero?"
Learning Through Action: Children as Agents of Change
Ms. Paphaphorn Chalermvanich, Director of the Public Communication and Marketing Promotion Center, explained the event's vision: "Thai PBS designed 'Thai PBS Kids Day 2026' to be a space for learning that is both fun and meaningful for children. This year's theme, 'Children are the Power of the World and the Future,' encourages children to learn about the environment, global warming, and adapting to climate change through hands-on experiences and creative activities, instilling an earth-friendly mindset in young minds."
The event concept centered on empowering children to understand their potential to change the world through environmentally conscious actions, reflecting Thai PBS's commitment to educating the next generation about pressing global challenges.
Cultural Heritage Meets Youth: Khon Performance by Young Artists
A highlight of the opening ceremony was a rare khon masked dance performance by young children, presenting the Ramakien episode ‘Hanuman Captures Lady Benjakaya’, The performance showcased the dedication required to preserve Thailand's intangible cultural heritage, which UNESCO has recognized as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
The production required a full year of preparation, with custom-designed costumes and khon masks specially crafted to suit children's physiques. The director, from a private drama institute and an experienced khon trainer, emphasized the performance's dual purpose: making this world heritage art form accessible to Thai children and demonstrating that even preschoolers can master sophisticated classical dance with creative training methods.
The young performers captivated the audience, led by six-year-old Theewaris Keeratipatthamrong (Tonkla) as Hanuman and four-year-old Miss Karinya Kaewbutra (Karin) as Lady Benjakaya—the youngest performer. Nong Tonkla shared his enthusiasm: "I feel excited and have fun performing every time. Khon isn't difficult but requires practice. I love performing khon because my mother is my idol in classical dance." The four-year-old Nong Karin, who began learning khon at three and a half, expressed her joy at performing at Thai PBS.
Parent Perspectives: Environmental Education for the Future
Mr. Chayanon Chalechon, attending with his daughter Chatchaya Chalechon, praised Thai PBS's consistent annual Children's Day programming: "Thai PBS organizes Children's Day activities every year, and the events truly give children meaningful opportunities to participate. There's a diverse range of activities—physical, mental, and educational—all integrated together."
He highlighted the relevance of this year's global warming theme: "It aligns with the current global situation. Everyone is facing environmental problems. Children learn that global warming isn't a distant issue anymore—it's close and affects daily life. We need to pass this knowledge to the new generation so they can grow up equipped to handle future challenges."
Four Adventure Zones: Earth, Water, Wind, and Fire
The event featured four themed adventure zones where children assumed the role of "Little Planet Guardians," engaging with creative activities designed by Thai PBS programs and network partners that combined fun with learning:
Mini News Anchor Studio: Children experienced news reading on camera, with recordings made available on Thai PBS's online channels.
Little Sky Master: An introduction to basic drone operation and flight principles.
Podcast Workshop: Children practiced voice recording and created their own audio content.
Mini YouTuber Studio: Aspiring young content creators learned hosting techniques and tried their hand at creating YouTube-style programs.
These activities, alongside environmental education stations focusing on sustainability and climate action, provided hands-on learning experiences that aligned with Thai PBS's mission to educate and inspire the next generation of engaged citizens.
Commitment to Young Audiences
Thai PBS Kids Day 2026 reinforced the broadcaster's position as a leading producer of quality children's content in Thailand, maintaining its tradition of creating meaningful spaces where children can learn, play, and develop an understanding of their role in shaping a sustainable future. The event exemplified Thai PBS's ongoing commitment to serving as "media for everyone," with particular emphasis on nurturing young minds through education, culture, and environmental awareness.
