Observe the child during independent dramatic play or play with others. Provide props for preferred themes.
After the play ask the child what she did.
Child provides a vague narrative about his play.
Help early childhood educators and parents understand that fantasy play allows the child to insert creativity. The child may act silly or make unusual sounds. Tolerating and even encouraging fantasy behavior is difficult for many adults. Explain how letting the child bark like a dog and pretend to drink from a bowl on the floor is not crazy behavior, it is the child’s exploration of how other creatures act. Support for creative play encourages creative thinking. Encourage early childhood educators and parents to talk to the child about his play sequences.
 North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, 2015
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