Kids like to engage in make-believe games because they find them fun. Such play is known as imaginative play and it is much more than child’s play. It is a crucial part of normal child development and you should encourage it. Including imaginative play in daycare routine can be an excellent way to do so. So, how does it benefit your child? Find out in this guide.
Benefits
Some of the most important benefits of engaging in imaginative play are as follows:
Grows Creativity
The more creative a child is the less stressed they will feel. When your child engages in imaginative play, their imagination is stimulated and their creativity increases. Enhanced imagination means children can play or pretend to be anyone or anything they like. More creative kids tend to grow into happier, healthier, and more confident adults.
Develops Social Skills
Social skill development is one of the most challenging areas during growth. Kids have their own natural way of feeling connected when they play. Engaging in fantasy play enables children to start understanding relationships. They learn to:
- Work together
- Share
- Take turns
They develop social skills and start feeling more connected. It is recommended to get your child’s daycare Baulkham Hills facility involved in fantasy play activities as well.
Develops Emotional Competence
Another benefit of engaging more in imaginative play is the development of emotional empathy and competence. As part of make-believe play, children can practice demonstration of empathy or care for others. The sensation of being gentle, kind, and helping others may be something new and pleasant to them. The development of an understanding of their emotions and feelings further teaches them how to better interact with others.
Develops Language Skills
Imaginative play also contributes to language development during early childhood. Fantasy play revolves a lot around communication. Kids enjoy describing and narrating things whilst playing. These conversations help develop their vocabulary. It is recommended to listen to them and create a more supportive play environment to further enhance their language skills.
Develops Problem-Solving Skills
Imaginative play helps children develop their problem-solving skills. For example, they learn how to negotiate who will play what role. Creativity is one important factor for effective problem-solving. It is well known that fantasy play helps boost creativity in children.
Another way make-believe play builds problem-solving skills is by giving children the time and space required to figure things out for themselves. Kids should be encouraged to engage in role-play activities.
You can use a number of strategies to encourage imaginative play. This includes:
- Providing access to play partners and props
- Organise dress-up parties and invite your child’s friends
- Allow your child to choose the duration and location of the playtime
- Get children involved in your daily chores and ask them to join you. For example, you can ask them to cook alongside you whilst using their toys.
There is no age restriction when you can introduce fantasy play to your child. Begin by providing them with safe items such as soft toys. For more information and guidance on integrating imaginative play as part of the day care routine, it is recommended to contact HazelGrove Early Education Centre at 02 9639 1439. You can also write to us and we will get back to you at the earliest.
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