BPT
HOW PARENTS CAN ENCOURAGE
AND SUPPORT I MAG I N A T I V E PLAY
P
lay is a child’s work, and it
comes naturally to kids. While
we often focus on how a child’s
intellectual abilities are coming
along, the role of imaginative play
in childhood development is often
overlooked.
Imaginative play comes in many
forms, whether playing house during
a play date or pretending a cardboard
box is a magic portal to the dinosaur
age. Whatever a child chooses,
imaginative play expands creativity,
problem-solving skills and cognitive
thinking. That is why for children in
the 3- to 5-year age range, it is crucial
they are given access to time, space
and playthings to fully experience it,
says Laurie Schacht, publisher of The
Toy Insider.
“Imaginative play enables young
children to navigate their new and
growing emotional thoughts, as
10
|
WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE
|
JANUARY 2019
well as boundaries within their own
gold mine for inexpensive, gently
social and family group settings,” says
used costumes and accessories.
Schacht. “A simple doll can create
a new world or environment for a • Imitation is good: Kids like to
child to role play, as they interact with
mimic real life situations in their
their toy and learn the importance
play, helping them make sense of
and responsibilities of caring for
their world. That makes kitchen
something.”
sets, play tools and even a play
shaving set so much more than
While children need little prompting
simple amusements. So if they
to play and pretend, there are many
want to cook a pretend dinner, be
things parents and caregivers can do
sure and arrive “hungry!”
to encourage and support imaginative
play. Here are a few ideas and tips to • Cardboard boxes are magic:
get started.
With the help of a few simple,
everyday objects around the
house, kids can make their
• Build a dress-up station: With
a dress-up station, kids can take
own playthings - and put their
their pretend games to the next
creative spin on it. Penne pasta,
level of fun - and perhaps even
a little food coloring and string
stage a play to entertain the entire
lets them make and design their
family. Include hats, funny glasses,
own colorful beaded necklaces.
fake beards, wigs and shoes. Tip:
And don’t forget, to a kid, nothing
Yard sales and thrift shops are a
holds more possibilities than a