Pretend Play: Airplanes

Any solid early childhood education program should have a strong dramatic play component. Dramatic play (or pretend play), when scaffolded by engaging teachers, results in more creative, imaginative, and self-regulated children. If you haven't already, please take a time to read this New York Times article about the importance of dramatic play in self-regulation, which is a better predictor of academic achievement than IQ tests.

The airplane outside is often used as a vehicle for adventures to far-away places. Children take turns pretending to be the pilot while the other children act as passengers. Teachers ask children where they will fly to today: "Africa" "India" "My home" "McDonald's!" Sometimes there is turbulence and the see-saw airplane shakes back and forth (to the delight of squealing children). Sometimes rides are pretty smooth while teachers lead songs on the airplane.

Take opportunities at home to extend your child's dramatic play and help them fly as far as their imaginations can take them.