Importance of Playing with Dolls
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Dolls provide far more than just a fun toy with which to play. They can provide an avenue for toddlers to learn about life skills. These can be useful for all children, including both boys and girls.
Teaches empathy
When a toddler pretends she is a little mommy and cares for a baby, she is learning how to care for someone other than herself. Toddlers do not generally have empathy yet but playing with dolls as they age can help them to look at the world through another’s eyes. They will learn to take care of someone else’s needs beyond their own, even if it is just in pretend play.
Teaches them how to help others
If a child is playing little mommy, then he or she will be taking care of the baby with activities like pretend feeding and bathing. This can help expose a toddler to what it is like to do something for someone else. Parents help their toddler in most activities, and when the child is dealing with a doll, the role is reversed and he or she can get a feel for what it is like to be the one helping.
Can aid in independence
Toddlers do not make most of their own decisions, and pretend play with dolls gives them this opportunity. They make the choices for their “babies.” This can give them a sense of independence, which is important for a growing toddler.
Teaches them how to deal with situations
Boys and girls will often use dolls in pretend play. The characters will talk to each other in elaborate plays straight out of the toddler’s imagination. These will often mirror the world they see around them and help them to develop the skills they will use in the future when dealing with these real situations.
For instance, if the toddler makes two dolls playing nicely with each other, then he or she may mimic that behavior in his or her own life. A parent can even guide the behavior to expose the child to different situations.
Allow them to use their imaginations
A child will use his or her imagination when playing with dolls, and this in itself can help with life skills. The child will enjoy playing, and this can help him or her grow and develop.
Playing with dolls is not just about fun for a toddler. It can help a child learn about empathy and practice caring for others. This play should be encouraged in both boys and girls.