As a retired Early Childhood educator and grandma to four, I have long known the importance of imaginative play.
As a mother, and now grandmother, I truly understand the importance and the deep connections that can be made through this type of play and wanted to share some ideas about imaginative play to get you started on your play journey or enhance what you are already doing.
XO,
Nana Kathy (contributor Kira’s mom)
What is imaginative play?
Imaginative play, or what is sometimes known as pretend play, is when children role play experiences they may have or will have in their world. Experiences such as going to the doctor or hospital, going to school, restaurants, office, the airport are all great imaginative play opportunities.
What’s in it for your grandchild?
Imagination-driven play builds a child’s developmental skills in many areas. It can improve language and communication skills. It supports social-emotional development. Children can learn problem solving skills and self-regulation. Engaging in imaginative play has been shown to increase memory and cognitive skills. Also, it’s FUN!!!
What’s in it for you, the grandparent?
When you engage in imaginative play with your grandchild, you learn what a child knows about the world around them. You are forging a deeper connection with that child. Also, it’s FUN!!!
How do I set up these play boxes?
First and foremost, it is not necessary to invest a fortune on big name toy company play sets.
Decide what you think your child is interested in exploring. Choose a few play themes, then start gathering materials from your home, friends, doctor’s office, workplace etc. that fit the theme.
Thrift stores, dollar stores and garage sales are all great places to pick up inexpensive items.
Clear plastic bins with lids or plastic shoe boxes work well to store the items by theme. I like to label mine with the theme name and a picture that corresponds to the theme. This makes them easier for children to identify. You can stack the bins on a closet shelf or under a bed when not in use, and ideally, store them someplace your grandkids can access when they come visit.
Here are a few suggestions for themes and related materials that my grandkids have enjoyed
OFFICE -stapler, old computer keyboard, file folders, pens, pencils, paper clips, play phone, stampers, hole punch, envelopes. Dress ups like ties or briefcases are a nice addition.
BEAUTY SALON- brush, comb, old dryers and curling irons (make sure to cut the cords off first) mirror, curlers make-up brushes, hair accessories
DOCTOR/HOSPITAL/VET OFFICE- play stethoscope, bandaids, ace bandages, empty pill bottles, plastic syringe, tongue depressor. Scrubs and lab coats are perfect dress ups if you have access to these.
GROCERY STORE-empty food containers and boxes, grocery bags, toy cash register, play money, purses and wallets.
SCIENCE- measuring tape, magnifying glass, large and small magnets, eye droppers, small clear plastic containers, colored craft pom poms, tweezers, tongs, safety glasses or goggles. (Pom poms can represent germs, bacteria etc. and children can have fun using the tweezers and tongs to put them in the clear containers)
Tips
Get on the floor with your grandchild.
Take an active role.
Wear the hat!
Use your imagination.
Use rich, interesting language during the play. Suggest other scenarios when your child is losing interest to extend play. For example, if you are role playing a pet veterinarian, change up the play to be a vet at the zoo. With small children, be sure to supervise closely when using small materials.
The possibilities for themes and materials are endless. I hope you enjoy countless hours of fun with your child engaging in imaginative play. Have FUN!!!
