Importance of Dramatic and Pretend Play in the Classroom

Pretend play might be viewed as trivial by some, but it still remains a fundamental part of the developmental learning process. Dramatic play provides the opportunity for children to express their feelings and ideas in a creative environment. It supports developing skills like abstract thinking, literacy, math, and social studies. At L'Academy dramatic play area is inviting. Presentation alone  inspires creative and imaginative play. During dramatic play, children get a chance to relive scenes from their own life, things they've witnessed or participated in. Some children might incorporate elaborate props and ask their friends to join them in dramatic play, or they might quietly imagine simple scenarios that require no toys, costumes, or participation of other people. Here are some benefits of dramatic play:

• Self Control - When children assign and accept roles in a dramatic play situation, they see them as a rule to follow. This helps them develop the ability to control their impulses and emotions.
• Language Development - Dramatic play teaches and promotes expressive language. Children like to communicate and express their wishes to their peers and explain their roles in a dramatic play.
• Physical Development - Dramatic play helps children develop both fine and gross motor skills, strength, and coordination.
  
• Social and Emotional Development - Development of skills such as sharing, taking turns, cooperation, negotiation, increase in self esteem, pride and accomplishment.

Even though dramatic play comes naturally to children you can always find ways to encourage it. Be willing to participate at least occasionally in some of your child's make-believe play, try to arrange times for your child to interact with other children, keep some key dramatic play props on hand, sometimes simple kitchen utensils, pots and pans can spark creative activities and encourage imaginative play.

Click here for an additional article on the importance of dramatic play.

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