Preschoolers at play

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Preschoolers love dramatic play such as dress-ups, and use this as a chance to act out scenarios which are confusing or scary. Messy play (with paints, water or in the sandpit) is also a great outlet for expressing emotions.

Clambering over playground equipment teaches a lot about coordination, balance and how far physical abilities can be pushed. And playing simple board games provides the chance to learn about taking turns, following the rules, counting and being a gracious loser – hard lessons for any preschooler.

Songs, books, riddles and silly rhymes are great fun to share as your preschooler's sense of humour comes to life. They’ll also extend her vocabulary and understanding of words.

By four, your child will be much more interested in playing with other children and making up games together. Even though you'll notice your child is much better at sharing and taking turns, she’ll still need your support and encouragement.

Your five-year-old is much more aware of her place in the world and is keen to fit in. She'll be eager to follow the rules at home and at preschool or school.

Most preschoolers understand that other people have feelings too, and will show sympathy towards them. As much as she may seem clever and accomplished, for your preschooler, home is still the centre of the world. Your young child relies on the love and support of parents and carers to develop emotionally, physically and academically.

Ideas for playing with your preschooler

• Children can create just about anything from a cardboard box and their imagination: a play house, a boat, a car. A small table turned on its side with a blanket or sheet draped over it is equally dad's house, a pirate's cave or the local shop. Why not check your local supermarket for spare boxes if you have none?
  
• Abox of old clothes – including cast-off shoes, old football jumpers, boots and handbags, high-heeled shoes and other odds and ends – is great for your preschooler to rummage through at any time. A homemade eye patch transforms your child into a pirate; a towel makes a caped crusader. Dress-ups will help your child act out things she’s imagined and help her express her emotions.
  
• Introduce new challenges: by four and five your child might want to try new activities like bike riding and board games.
  
• Talk with your child while you’re cooking dinner or doing the shopping. Let her help by measuring, stirring or helping think up a list for the shops.
  
• Songs, books, riddles and silly rhymes are great fun to share as her sense of humour comes to life. They’ll also help extend her vocabulary and understanding of words.
  
• Other ideas for things to play with:
  • play dough - suggest your child roll it into little balls and put it on toothpicks (great for developing fine motor skills)
  • a homemade sand pit
  • plastic containers such as Tupperware or any household boxes with lids, and plastic eating utensils
  • kitchen pots and pans (with smooth edges)
  • Duplo (large Lego)
  • simple puzzles and jigsaws
  • coloured blocks.

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