Dramatic Play

That dress up box in the corner of the playroom may be more valuable than you think.

The doctor’s kit or toolbox full of toy props may provide much more than some quiet time. Dramatic play occurs when children step into the role of a character and act as though they are the character. Dramatic play is commonly referred to by many other names. When kids play pretend, they are engaging in dramatic play. Other names include imaginative play, role playing or make believe. Regardless of the name, dramatic play has many benefits to children.

Types of Dramatic Play:

There are two types of dramatic play; structured and unstructured. Below are characteristics of each type.

Structured Dramatic Play:

Structured dramatic play occurs when some components of the play are chosen. Perhaps the playroom is turned into an ice skating rink or the kitchen area in a classroom has been transformed into a bakery. The place has been determined and likely props have been provided that align with this play. The children may be given roles or may choose their own within the setting. They step into the play and use their imagination within the parameters of the structure provided.

Unstructured Dramatic Play:

This play develops when there are no structures in place. Many times it occurs spontaneously or it can be planned by the child. This play may look like a recycled box becoming a rocketship or couch cushions and blankets being used to create a circus tent. The roles, props, play etc are all developed independent of outside feedback.

Benefits:

Language development:

Children learn expressive language through dramatic play. They must convey their vision for how the play will develop. They must interact as though they are the character they are stepping into. Children also learn new vocabulary associated with a specific role or setting.

Social skills:

Children often engage with others in dramatic play. Not only must they communicate and work cooperatively to determine roles and boundaries, they must interact while in the role or character they become. They must take turns, voice their wishes, share, listen and likely make compromises. Children will need to use conflict resolution as problems arise or visions for the play conflict.

Developing Empathy:

In dramatic play, children put themselves in another’s shoes. They are encouraged to change their perspective and see things from a different point of view. This directly relates to developing empathy.

Understanding symbolism:

Play props can take many forms. In dramatic play, one object may become another. For example, a block may symbolize a phone or a playsilk may represent a magic cape. Children are able to make the connection between an object they know and something completely different that they symbolize.

Social Emotional Support:

Children are able to work through big emotions or trauma in the form of play. Dramatic play can also provide an opportunity to role play prior to a new experience. By role playing, children can better prepare for the situation and will have a context to draw from on how to respond. This can also calm anxiety by diminishing the unknown. For example, we used a doctor’s dramatic play to prepare our daughter for her 2 year old annual visit. We walked through the steps of arriving to the doctors office as well as through the exam and getting a shot. When we arrived for her actual appointment she was a rock star. Her confidence was evident and she talked through each step with the doctor.

Distinguishing between real and fantasy:

Dramatic play allows children to switch between make-believe and real life. They may need to pause their play to ask you for something then go back to playing the role of an airplane pilot.

There is no doubt that imaginative play can provide benefits to our children. This list is certainly not exhaustive but highlights some key benefits of dramatic play. Play is such a powerful tool right at our fingertips. How will you use this information to impact play with your child?

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Looking for ideas to promote dramatic play? Check out our dramatic play section for ideas or our shop for printable resources.