PRETEND PLAY NORMALLY FOLLOWS THESE STEPS:

AROUND EIGHT MONTHS

Your baby enjoys making “music” (noise) by banging and shaking her toys.

AROUND 18 MONTHS

You’ll notice your baby starts to act out things she’s seen you do, like talking on the phone or “nursing” her doll. You can encourage this phase by offering toys that resemble real world objects (like a toy phone).

AROUND 24 MONTHS

Your child is now able to use one object in a way that represent something completely different – like putting a block to her ear as a cellphone.

FROM TWO TO THREE YEARS

The imagination is at full tilt, and as your child advances linguistically, cognitively and socially, her play starts to include fantasy, drama, and imitation. You’ll notice she starts to re-enact scenarios from stories or real life occurrences. Dress-up toys and storybooks are key items now.

FROM FOUR YEARS

At the most advanced form of socio-dramatic play, make-believe will now become more elaborate with extended storylines and character acting. Imaginary pals can also become part of your child’s fantasy world.