Pretend play with toys
1–2 yearsFamily ConnectionMaterials: Stuffed animals, dolls, or toy vehicles
Use simple toys or household items to pretend together. Pretend to feed a stuffed animal, put a doll to sleep, or drive toy cars. Join your child's pretend play and add simple actions. Take turns being the one to initiate actions. This builds a shared imaginative world you create together.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Use simple toys or household items to pretend together. Pretend to feed a stuffed animal, put a doll to sleep, or drive toy cars. Join your child's pretend play and add simple actions. Take turns being the one to initiate actions. This builds a shared imaginative world you create together.
Why It Works
Pretend play together creates a shared imaginative experience that builds connection and communication. When you enter your child's play world, you show that their interests matter to you. Adults who maintain shared hobbies or interests with parents report 35% higher relationship satisfaction and emotional closeness (Crosnoe & Trinitapoli, 2008). Beginning this pattern of entering each other's interests early establishes a relationship foundation that supports closeness as interests change over time.
Tips for Parents
Keep pretend scenarios very simple at this age. Copying your child's actions is a great way to join their play.
Let them see you enjoying the pretend play too, not just facilitating it.
Materials Needed
Stuffed animals, dolls, or toy vehicles
Learning Methods
Hands-On ExplorationBeginning Symbolic PlayMontessori Practical Life Activities
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