How to Create a Pretend Play Area at Home

One of the greatest things about childhood is imaginary play. You've probably seen children run around miniature kitchen sets, pretending to create masterpieces. Perhaps you've watched a toddler use toy animals to create a zoo. These are all healthy activities that promote social skills and enhance cognitive skills. Consequently, it's important to establish a functional pretend play area in your home. Read on to learn how to create a pretend play area in your home.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Locate an area of your house that is visible to you while your working, but is remote enough to allow your toddler to play without distraction.
2. Get several storage boxes or baskets for various themes, such as office, kitchen, house, doctor office, school, construction and grocery store. Label the outside of each basket with a picture representing what goes in the basket.
3. Fill the kitchen-themed basket with empty food boxes and milk cartons. Add old plastic outdoor plates, tablecloths, stirring spoons, pots, pans, toy food items and a cash register to play store.
4. Make an office-themed basket with items your child watches you use. An old keyboard or old laptop could be added. Put in some envelopes, paper tablets, hole punch and old telephone.
5. Stock the construction-themed basket with plain wooden blocks, empty shoe boxes, empty tissue boxes and old toilet paper or paper towel rolls. Add tape for older children to connect items together.
6. Purchase a play kitchen for the area or make your own kitchen. Use large cardboard boxes to make a refrigerator, stove and sink. Kids will love it regardless of what it's made from.
7. Create an animal-themed basket. Fill it with toy animals. Use cardboard to make lakes, rivers, trees and green grassy areas.

Tips & Warnings

• Show your child how to make a house out of a couple of old shoe boxes. Tape the boxes together to make different levels.
• Don't gender stereotype you child's play area. Boys need opportunities to play with kitchens, while girls need opportunities to play with cars.