Pretend Play

"Imaginative play is a precursor of conceptual thought – in which possibilities are explored upon the inner 'stage' of a child's imagination." – Erik Erikson


It is argued that developing an imagination is crucial for gaining knowledge and that children who engage in more pretend play at a younger age have a richer vocabulary, are less impulsive and turn out to be great leaders!  Furthermore, pretend play builds social and social skills, language skills and thinking skills. For a more in-depth look, read the article, How to Encourage Preschool Pretend Play. Don't be deceived by the title...pretend play usually begins around 18 months and lasts all the way through childhood! Although it is introduced during toddlerhood, older children certainly will enjoy pretend play!


Leah has recently become very interested in pretend play.  She is taking a sudden interest in baby dolls and enjoys feeding them, rocking them and putting them in the toy cradle.  Leah also enjoys playing with her dollhouse, putting the "people" in the bed (and saying shhh!), having them "ock" (rock) in the rocking chair and even letting them slide down her slide (while she yells whee)! It's fun to see imaginative play taking place and I hope that her love for this form of play continues to grow!

While many toy stores sell plenty of toys that encourage imaginative play, it is not necessary to spend a ton of money on them. Chances are you have items lying around your house that would be great props for encouraging pretend play.  For example, put no longer used clothing, hats, shoes and jewelry in a box for children to play dress up.  Do you have large boxes hanging around your house? Let your child have them...you would be surprised with what children will create with boxes!  Allow your child to play chef: all they need is some old old tupperware and utensils and empty food boxes/containers and the cooking can begin!  


At a time where technology is overtaking our lives and there is so much instant gratification because of technological advances, it is important to still give children ample opportunities to simply play, be creative with with their toys (or household items) and make up games. I know for me, some of my fondest memories as a kid are playing school, store and house with my sisters. 


What is your child's favorite pretend play activity?