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How to Set Up a Dramatic Play Area in Child Care

Here are tips on how to setup a dramatic play area for children to play pretend and use their imagination.

1. Select an area away from noisy or active play.
2. Equip the area with child-sized furniture.
3. Be sure to have all toys and materials within easy reach of the child.
4. Check to make sure the child can use the materials independently.
5. Include "real life" props such as empty food containers, real bandages etc.
6. Include props, dress-up clothing and toys that would be appealing to both genders.
7. Add a mirror for children to see how they look when trying on dress up clothes.
8. Allow other toys to be brought in as props.

Tips:

• Try to have more than one of a toy or prop and minimize problems with sharing.
• Add props to suit the current interest of the children. (For example: If they are fascinated by doctors, add some gloves and surgical masks.)