Encouraging young children’s imagination can be a fun and rewarding experience for both parents and children.
By fuelling childrens’ imagination and providing the opportunities for creative play and exploration, you can help them develop essential cognitive, intellectual, social development and coping skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. Skills that they can rely on at all the stages leading to adulthood, and beyond.
Find out more about the benefits of learning through play.
tips for creative imagination-stretching play
The team at childrens’ shoe brand, Bubblegummers, share some tips for creative make-believe play.
play dress-up
Provide your child with a box of costumes and accessories and let them dress up as their favourite characters. This will not only allow them to use their imagination, but also develop their social skills as they pretend to be different people and interact with others.
provide open-ended toys
Toys that can be used in multiple ways, such as blocks, dolls and playdough, allow children to use their imagination and creativity to come up with different scenarios and ideas. Avoid toys that have a specific purpose or can only be used in one way.
read books
Reading books with your child can spark their imagination and allow them to visualise different scenarios and characters in their minds. Encourage them to ask questions and use their imagination to come up with their own stories and ideas.
create an imaginary world
Help your child create an imaginary world with their toys or drawings. Ask them questions about their world, such as what the characters are like, where they live, and what adventures they go on.
encourage outdoor play
Outdoor play allows children to explore their surroundings and use their imagination to create games and scenarios. Provide them with simple props, such as sticks, leaves and rocks, to encourage their creativity.
allow unstructured play
Children need unstructured playtime to develop their imagination and creativity. Avoid overscheduling their day and allow them to play freely without adult direction.
play silly games
Play games with your child that involve using their imagination, such as “I Spy” or “What If.” These games allow them to use their creativity and come up with different scenarios and ideas.
Read more about the benefits of fantasy play.
Shoed for success
Once children’s imaginations are running wild, they’ll need some cool and comfy shoes to lead the way! Get them adventure ready with top-selling, global children’s footwear range, Bubblegummers, perfect for active kids who love to run, jump, and play.
With elasticated laces, a signature bubblegum scent – there are even some with light-up soles – Bubblegummers are designed to allow for flexibility and protection, with the colours and technologies that your children need to grow up healthy and happy. The new line of Bubblegummers are available at selected Edgars stores nationwide and online.
win Bubblegummers for your child
Hurry! Keep your children’s imagination alive, enter our competition to stand a chance to win one of four pairs of the latest Bubblegummers high-tops and sneakers.
