Pretend play family routines
2–3 yearsFamily ConnectionMaterials: Dolls, stuffed animals, or household items for props
Act out familiar routines together using dolls, stuffed animals, or pretend play. You might put toys to bed, make pretend meals, or go on pretend trips. Follow your child's imagination and add your own ideas to the story. Switch roles and let them be the parent sometimes.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Act out familiar routines together using dolls, stuffed animals, or pretend play. You might put toys to bed, make pretend meals, or go on pretend trips. Follow your child's imagination and add your own ideas to the story. Switch roles and let them be the parent sometimes.
Why It Works
Pretend play together allows you to enter your child's world and share their interests, building a foundation for lifelong connection. Childhood behaviors including actively participating in family activities and showing enthusiasm for shared interests predict stronger parent-child bonds and better communication throughout life (Larson & Verma, 1999). At this developmental stage, children are developing symbolic thinking and can engage in pretend play, making this activity perfectly suited to their capabilities. Shared play creates positive associations and strengthens emotional bonds.
Tips for Parents
Let your child direct the play. This helps them feel capable and heard.
Join their world without taking over. Ask what happens next instead of telling them.
Use this time to understand what your child notices and cares about in daily life.
Materials Needed
Dolls, stuffed animals, or household items for props
Learning Methods
Interactive Play-Based LearningSymbolic and Pretend PlaySongs, Stories, and Rhymes
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