Categories of Role Play Toys

The first, and perhaps most common, type of pretend play toys are theme-sets like kitchens, doctor's kits, stores, and pretend camping toys. They provide the child with miniature tools with which to experiment.

Dress up games are popular with little girls who love to get "gussied up" in their mother's clothes or in a princess costume. But this is not an activity little boys need to be discouraged from trying. They make excellent little soldiers, cowboys, Indians, and adventure characters.

Dolls and play animals give children the chance to be the parent, babysitter or even zookeeper. Children also use these types of toys to interact with each other, fostering social development. Puppets are especially good in this regard as they allow the child to "become" another character and can be such comforting alter-egos they are frequently used in child counseling sessions.

Traditional hand puppets are placed over the hand in such a way that the fingers and thumb operate the puppet's mouth. A simpler take on this theme are small finger puppets that simply fit over one digit and are moved by wiggling the finger. When made as a glove, the child can have a whole community or family right there on one hand. (A variation on these hand toys is the soft bath puppet that can be taken into the tub and safely dried out later.) Marionettes are a more complex puppets manipulated by strings connected to a cross-shaped control bar and are best for older children with the dexterity to learn their operation. Puppet activities for preschoolers work best with hand or finger puppets.

Considerations Before Purchasing Role Play Toys

When thinking about what role play toys to buy for your child, take into consideration his or her preferences and needs. Just because you have a little girl does not mean she will love a princess dress up set. Some girls might have more fun dressing up as a cowgirl. Watch your child to figure out what he or she likes to do. Do they always want to help you cook? Perhaps a play kitchen set is the best idea! Are they fascinated with animals? A zoo themed play set might be the best option. Also, take into consideration your child's age. It is not a bad idea to buy pretend play toys that will grow with your child. Sets that are expandable allow for your child's developing imagination.

Benefits of Role Play Toys

Role play toys have many benefits for the preschool child and their parents. Role playing allows children to work through their emotions. Expressing emotions is difficult for young children, and often they can use a role play toy to better express themselves. As children play with pretend toys, they develop their budding imaginations, explore social boundaries, and develop language skills.

Final Tips For Role Playing Toys

When buying role play toys, make sure the toy is age appropriate, safe and well constructed. Don't select toys that present an emotional or social risk. If you child is terrified of a visit to the dentist, a toy dentist set may not be a good idea. Whatever your choose to buy, pretend play toys will foster social, emotional, and imaginative development in your preschool child and create happy memories for you both.