Benefits of Pretend Play for Children
Pretend play has always been a child’s favorite game. Naturally, children really like this game. Almost all children do it according to their respective imaginations and imaginations.
“Mom first… aaa…” That’s what Prue (1 year and 8 months) said to her doll, Dandelion. Like any good mother, she feeds her doll, carries it in her shawl, then puts it to sleep. When the Mbak talked loudly to him, he immediately put his thumb on his lips. “Shhhh … Ma’am, don’t be noisy. Dandel’s lulling again, “he whispered. Next time, Prue will pretend to be a doctor and examine his patients. Who else is the patient if not Dandel.
The environment also has a big influence because what your little one imagines is usually inspired by what he sees or observes from his surroundings. If he has a deep impression with the pediatrician who checks on him frequently, for example, he may be happy to pretend to be a doctor and examine his ‘patients’ who are not feeling well.
Besides being fun, this game is also effective in supporting children’s readiness for school. A study of children and caregivers who often pretend to play games that involve shapes, colors, numbers, and even vocabulary and reading has proven that the imaginative way they use gives meaningful results in supporting children’s reading skills. Playing like this is also good for the caregiver because being involved as a full partner in the parenting process allows him to be close to the child he cares for.
According to Susan Linn, author of The Case for Make Believe: Saving Play in a Commercialized World, pretend play is actually more than just a child’s play because it is very important for the development of creativity, empathy, and the ability to learn and solve problems in children.
By pretending, children learn to overcome fear, explore talents, or develop dreams and aspirations. When playing this game, he will simultaneously develop initiative and not just give a passive response. Children will also be better trained to respond to something honestly and as it is. Therefore, please support him and take the time to pretend with him yes, Ma!
