Make-believe is integral to a child's development, and the more open-ended the resources, the greater the scope for imaginative play, says Helen Bromley.

Early years practitioners will be familiar with the term 'role play'. Most settings will have a designated area where children can recreate a whole range of experiences - from being a member of a family, tending to an injured animal or travelling into outer space.

This kind of play is integral to childhood and role play deserves to be given high status by adults, not least because it provides a meaningful context for a wide range of learning and teaching opportunities. If used to its full potential, a role-play area will offer children the chance to learn across the whole EYFS curriculum.

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