Every child can be the king of the castle when you choose the best resources for another essential collection, says Nicole Weinstein.

Castles provide a wonderful gateway for imaginary play. Using the simplest of resources, children can create exciting new worlds full of knights, dragons, kings and queens. They make up stories for their new characters, practising essential narrative skills and descriptive language. Often there are strong links with home life, whether it is a favourite fairytale book or a popular film such as Disney's 'Tangled'. Providing a collection of resources for small-world play, such as castles and knights, and role play costumes and accessories, will support this form of fantasy play.

CORE COLLECTION

Resources that enable children to re-enact fantasy play scenarios should feature in your continuous (everyday) provision. By acting out narratives involving knights, witches or superheroes, young children are exploring important issues such as good and evil, life and death, what it means to be powerful and how to make people safe.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here