Playing helps children put thoughts into words and think symbolically so they understand that spoken and written words can stand for real objects and experiences.
Play also builds imagination and social skills.
- Your child doesn’t need expensive or complicated toys. Simple toys and objects like puppets, dress-up clothes, pots and pans, and blocks are best for encouraging your child’s imagination.
- Play “pretend” and other unstructured games. Your child will learn new words and practice language skills while having fun with you.
- Have your child tell you a story based on the pictures in a book or act out a story using puppets.
