Although your child’s pretend play may seem charming, did you know it actually boosts brainpower? In fact, pretending is a hallmark of developmental learning and higher thinking skills and gets kids ready for academic achievement. Using their imaginations in play gives children practice in symbolic thinking, a skill required to read, count and converse.
You can support this kind of play by respecting your child’s built-in need to make believe. Usually by age 2, your child should have entered the world of make–believe by doing toddler activities like feeding a baby doll or scolding a stuffed animal. Then somewhere between 3 and 4 your child’s imagination may run wild. Witches, ghosts and supernatural beings will become regular visitors in your home. But since kids this age don’t entirely understand the difference between reality and fantasy, they may need your help, particularly around Halloween.
Some young children may hesitate to participate in the festivities. After all, this holiday is designed to be hair-rising. For little ones, it's scary when fantasy and reality blend so closely it becomes difficult to distinguish the two.
Uncover the Mysteries
Young children need to understand there is a real person, with a normal face, behind that scary mask and costume. This dress-up may not seem pretend at all. Try to imagine how a young child might feel as he sees his friends and family transformed into goblins, witches and monsters.
Reassure Children They Are Safe, Loved and Cared for
Children under five are especially vulnerable to Halloween trickery. They have developed certain expectations of their world and what is likely to occur there. The trappings of Halloween disturb these perceptions.
Draw Clear Lines Between Reality and Pretend
Young children are living in a world where fantasy and reality are sometimes confused, partly because of they lack experience. Give your children a clear picture of reality, while still encouraging them to be creative and value fantasy.
Be Sensitive to Your Child’s Own Needs
Often what delights a 5-year-old will terrify a toddler. Protect your child from the macabre Halloween antics of older siblings and allow your child to take refuge in the security only you can provide.
Prepare Children Before the Scary Night with Fun Family Activities
Most of Halloween festivities take place in the dark, and this contributes to the fear. Many of the creatures that come out on Halloween may have been the product of a nightmare or frightening fantasy. By talking with children about pretending, letting them watch you dress up, and making their own Halloween masks and decorations, you can allay some fears so your little one can enjoy the hocus pocus of Halloween.