As the name suggests, imaginative or make-believe play is a kind of activity that allows children of all ages to consider fantasy situations and role-play them. Some examples of these include a child playing ‘school’ with their toys, or turning an old cardboard box into a doll house.
But why do different Montessori preschools and parents encourage their children to indulge in imaginative play? This is because imaginative play has many benefits; it can improve a child’s academic skills, concentration, and focus. In addition, children who indulge in imaginative play regularly have fewer disruptive habits and can better manage their emotions and thoughts.
Want to learn more about this unique and creative activity? Read on.
Take Your Children to New Places
One of the best ways to let your child’s creativity run wild is to encourage them to explore new places. In this way, they’ll be exposed to new people, locations, scenarios, environments, and more, which they can bring into their imaginative world. Some places you can take your child to include the park, zoo, beach, museum, supermarket, and more.
In addition, engage your child on these visits by asking them different questions. For instance, you can point to a squirrel in a park and ask your child what they would do if they were a squirrel instead. Let them imagine a world that’s entirely different from their current life.
Read to Your Children
Reading to your children allows them to think and create their own imaginative world. When reading to them, ask your child questions about the story, like what was their favorite character and why.
Pick out your favorite character too and later, both of you can act out as those characters and build a story of your own. Besides allowing you and your child to indulge in imaginative play, this activity allows parents to understand their child’s emotions and perspective.
Cook or Paint
If your child loves food, ask them to spend a day with you in the kitchen. Give them a few ingredients and help them come up with and cook a unique dish. In the same way, you can bring out canvases and paint and ask your child to paint anything they imagine. Who knows, you might be nurturing a Gordon Ramsay or a Vincent Van Gogh under your roof!
While these tips can help your child excel at imaginative play. One of the best ways to fuel a child’s creativity and curiosity is to let them learn new things at a preschool in Katy, TX. At Centerra Ranch Montessori School, our experienced and professional teachers have designed many creative and innovative activities for children that allow them to tap into their imaginative side.
Reach out to us and enroll your child in our Montessori preschool in Katy. Centerra Ranch Montessori School is also opening a family centered preschool in Fulshear soon.
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