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A well-informed practitioner can save the day when children engage in superhero play, reports Nicole Weinstein

Superheroes come in many different guises, ranging from the traditional caped crusaders such as Spiderman, Superwoman and Batman to modern-day action heroes such as Power Rangers and Tree Fu Tom. When engaged in this form of imaginary play, children often use costumes and props or small-world figures to imitate characters or action heroes they admire.

According to Dr Kay Mathieson, early years consultant and trainer, children use this play as a means to work out situations where good and bad can be explored, defined and resolved. She adds, ‘Developmentally, they are exploring their thinking and understanding about dilemmas, competing priorities and confusion around “grey areas” between good and bad. In addition, they are learning about people and the range of intentions that might give rise to particular behaviours or actions.’

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