Benefits of Pretend Play
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In this day of technology where young children are continually spending more and more hours each week in front of the TV, smart phone, or tablet, the amount of time actually playing is being jeopardized. As parents, it is crucial that we encourage our children to engage in imaginative play.
Pretend play is when a child uses his or her imagination to create scenarios involving multiple perspectives, either with themselves, other children, or toys. Various research studies on the benefits of pretend play have shown that it is a crucial aspect of childhood development. Some of the long-term benefits include:
Encourages Creativity
Expands Social Skills
Allows for Self-Expression
Enhances cognitive flexibility
Increases language skills
Teaches problem solving/conflict resolution
Expands Social Skills
Allows for Self-Expression
Enhances cognitive flexibility
Increases language skills
Teaches problem solving/conflict resolution
OFFER A VARIETY OF TRADITIONAL TOYS
One great way to introduce pretend play to little ones is through baby dolls and accessories. Yes, even little boys can enjoy playing with dolls! It is fun for kids to pretend to feed and burp and change diapers – all things they know that you did with them. Another great toy option are static figurines, like plastic dinosaurs, and colorful wooden blocks! The combination of those toys can provide hours of play for a child with a good imagination.
One great way to introduce pretend play to little ones is through baby dolls and accessories. Yes, even little boys can enjoy playing with dolls! It is fun for kids to pretend to feed and burp and change diapers – all things they know that you did with them. Another great toy option are static figurines, like plastic dinosaurs, and colorful wooden blocks! The combination of those toys can provide hours of play for a child with a good imagination.
PLAY WITH THEM
You can be a catalyst in teaching your young child how to engage in pretend play by encouraging their imaginations to run wild. Take some time out and get down and play with them!
You can be a catalyst in teaching your young child how to engage in pretend play by encouraging their imaginations to run wild. Take some time out and get down and play with them!
SET UP PLAYDATES
There is nothing quite like witnessing the elaborate games that two 4-year-olds come up with when put in a quiet room together. Children’s imaginations can really run wild and play off each other as early as age three. Not only do playdates give you a break, but it allows your child to expand their social skills by interacting with someone who is literally on their same level.
There is nothing quite like witnessing the elaborate games that two 4-year-olds come up with when put in a quiet room together. Children’s imaginations can really run wild and play off each other as early as age three. Not only do playdates give you a break, but it allows your child to expand their social skills by interacting with someone who is literally on their same level.
ENCOURAGE SOLO PLAY
Solo play is just as important to your child’s development as social play. Dedicate periods during their day to “quiet time” where your child has the freedom to play with their toys, books, and games at their own free will without any distractions. At first they may think this is boring because no one is playing with them, but over time they will learn to use their imaginations to make their toys come to life.
Solo play is just as important to your child’s development as social play. Dedicate periods during their day to “quiet time” where your child has the freedom to play with their toys, books, and games at their own free will without any distractions. At first they may think this is boring because no one is playing with them, but over time they will learn to use their imaginations to make their toys come to life.
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