Imaginative Play

Imaginative play offers your child the opportunity to express themselves and helps them improve their social, emotional, language and thinking skills while also developing their creativity skills.

When your child turned one, they probably started coping the things you do, from household chores to playing ‘work’ – they will be watching their parents and trying to mimic what you do. As they get older, these role play games may develop as your child starts to bring their imagination into the game and not only are they playing mums and dads and offices, but they are flying into space in their cardboard rocket or riding unicorns to fairyland.

These games are important to their overall development and should be encouraged. Below are a few suggestions on ways to bring out their imagination, yours too! The Classic – Cardboard Box Something doesn’t have to cost a lot to create hours of entertainment and a cardboard box is the perfect item.

Save a box which is big enough for them to climb into and see what they can come up with; it could be a ship, plane, castle or dragon – the list is endless. You could even supply a few items to help them transform this humble box into their imaginary dream.

Felt tips or paint, paper toilet rolls, yoghurt pots, stickers and glue – whatever you have at home, and enjoy some time creating a masterpiece with your child which they can then play with.

This box can then evolve as time goes on and morph into something else. Build a Den You probably remember doing this when you were young.

Grab some chairs or clothes airers, sheets or blankets and some pegs and create a den of dreams.

Fill with pillows or cushions, some fairy lights if you have them and create the perfect hideaway for them to enjoy.

If you want extra brownie points then let them have a packed lunch to enjoy in their new haven! Home Office With more and more people working from home, your child may enjoy playing ‘offices’.

Why not set up their own working area and give them some paper, a play phone, pens, post-it notes, you could even make a pretend keyboard and screen out of cardboard. Hunting for Bears Looking to get out of the house.

Why not pack a bag of supplies, including a magnifying glass, string, snacks, water and of course their favourite toy animal and head to your local woods and hunt for bears, gruffalos or whichever animal takes your fancy.

It’s amazing how creative your little one can become when they get involved in the game and enjoying some time exploring your local area. Restaurants Another favourite with young children is playing restaurants.

Why not get out their toy food, lay the table, make up a menu and enjoy some time playing restaurants with your child as they waiter and chef. They will love taking your order and cooking up something delicious in their play kitchen, just don’t forget to pay the bill at the end!

Sources: https://www.nhsggc.org.uk/kids/life-skills/play-leisure/pretend-play/

Imaginative play offers your child the opportunity to express themselves and helps them improve their social, emotional, language and...