How Pretend Play Helps Children Make Sense of the World

From setting the table for a teddy bear picnic to running a pretend shop stand, imaginative play is far more than just cute, t’s one of the most powerful ways children process what they see, hear, and experience in daily life.

At Playtisserie, we believe that play is a child’s language. It’s how they tell stories, solve problems, and work through emotions. And as parents and caregivers, we get a front-row seat.

Image by Kailey Lewis

Making sense through make-believe

Children absorb a lot, but they don’t always have the words or understanding to express what’s going on around them. Pretend play gives them a safe space to explore big ideas in small, manageable ways.

They might:

  • Re-enact a trip to the supermarket
  • Pretend to be the doctor or the patient
  • Play out mealtime routines or family celebrations
  • Use toys to role-play challenging experiences like a new baby, moving house, or starting school

Through these mini scenarios, they explore their feelings, rehearse social interactions, and build emotional resilience.

Examples of pretend play with meaning

1. “You be the shopkeeper, I’ll be the customer”

Children often mimic real-world roles they observe. Running a play shop helps them practise maths, manners, and decision-making, while also working through any real-life shopping experiences they’ve had.

  • “I don’t have enough money—what should I do?”
  • “Oops, I dropped the eggs!”
  • “I forgot my list—can you help me remember?”

2. “Let’s bake a birthday cake”

Whether it’s for a doll, a sibling, or Mum, birthday party play can reflect how children feel about celebration, attention, or even sharing.

  • “I made your favourite cake—chocolate with sprinkles!”
  • “Everyone has to wait their turn for a slice.”
  • “It’s your special day, we’re going to sing!”

3. “I’m the doctor, you need a check-up”

Medical play is common after doctor visits, vaccinations, or even seeing a loved one unwell. It helps children regain a sense of control and familiarity.

  • “You need some medicine, it’s cherry flavour.”
  • “You’re very brave!”
  • “I’ll listen to your heartbeat. Deep breaths!”

How parents can support this type of play

  • Watch first: See what scenario your child is exploring. What might they be trying to express?
  • Join gently: Step into the play as a character. “I’m here for my appointment—am I in the right place?”
  • Ask curious questions: Not to quiz, but to keep the play going. “What happens next?” “How can I help?”
  • Follow their lead: Let them steer the story—they’ll often show you what they need to work through.

Pretend play builds real-life skills

Through this kind of imaginative exploration, children develop:

  • Empathy
  • Communication
  • Conflict resolution
  • Emotional awareness
  • Social confidence

They’re doing big learning in small, playful moments.

Every play session is a window into their world

The next time your little one sets up a café, opens a felt egg carton, or serves you pretend soup for breakfast, know that something meaningful is happening. They’re not just playing; they’re growing and exploring. 

Discover toys that support meaningful, open-ended play and help your child make sense of the world, one story at a time.

Back to blog