Pretend play is play in which a child acts out situations or uses one object as if it were something else, such as feeding a doll or holding a block to the ear like a phone. Simple pretend play usually appears between about 18 months and 2 years and becomes richer in the preschool years.
Key takeaways
- It builds language, imagination and problem-solving.
- Acting out everyday routines comes first, then more complex stories.
- Pretend play helps children understand feelings and other people's views.
What you can do
- Provide simple props: toy dishes, dolls, hats and boxes.
- Join in and follow your child's story.
- Talk about what the characters feel and want.
