The Sugar Bean's Closet

The Power of Imagination with Dress-up Play

As a former teacher and a mother of two young girls, I am always intrigued by the role of dress-up play in child development.  Ask a child what they want to be when they grow up and they will not only tell you occupations such as doctors, pirates, princesses, and bus drivers, but they will usually find that special dress, outfit or hat needed to illustrate their chosen identity.

What are children learning by Imaginative Role-Play?

Encouraging imaginative play is the first step that we can take to encourage role-play that prepares for learning and preparation for the rest of their lives.  Childhood role-play allows for children to learn about cooperation, taking turns and it encourages confidence and socialization.  Research shows that children who engage in imaginative play are more creative thinkers who mature to better problem solvers.  It can also improve vocabulary skills.

What can I do to Support my child's dramatic play?
When using the imagination, there is no limit to where we can go or to what we can become. 

*  Find or buy several big stuffed animals.  Pull out your child's baby clothes and let them dress their stuffed animals in their old clothes. 

*  Put together a dress-up box for both genders.  Old dance costumes and dance shoes are the best for girls.  Add some feather boas, tutus, animal ears, leotards, crowns, ties and costume jewelry.  Find some play cowboy hats, tool belts with plastic tools, or play doctor items. 

*  Buy new or used Halloween costumes that can be adapted to various dress-up options. 

*  Go camping!  Pitch a tent indoors or make one out of blankets.  Share the fun by reading a book, or having a snack in the tent with your child.

*  Collect various Mr. Potato Head parts and keep in a tub so that your child can create various faces and characters.

*  Connect play to stories from your child's favorite books. 

You can encourage your children to play, make suggestions or even join in, but it won't be long before their imaginations run wild, taking them on a life journey of fun learning. 

Be sure to check out my Ebay store http://stores.ebay.com/The-Sugar-Beans-Closet for many fun dress-up items and costumes.  I have many items for both boys and girls of all ages.  Let the power of imagination begin!