07/02/2026
Imaginary play is soooo important.
People don’t realise that when children are engaged in make-believe play they are developing a skill called ‘theory of mind’ where they realize that not everyone has the same perspective as themself.
They learn to understand the roles of parents, shopkeepers, school teachers and others when they take on those roles in play.
This really helps with emotion regulation and behaviour management as children become practised at seeing the situation from another person’s point of view.
You can help your child develop imaginary play skills by entering into a little play with them. You may introduce new play ideas and themes. You may do a little role play of their unique behaviours and they can act out what you would say in that situation. What a fun way to get insight into each other’s behaviour!
