Pretend play
What it is
Feeds a doll, 'talks' on a toy phone, drives a block as a car.
Start preparing
- Model it: pretend to drink from an empty cup and offer the child a sip.
- A doll, a few real spoons and cups, a toy phone — simple props beat electronic toys.
- Join the child's story rather than directing it.
When to check with a professional
No pretend play by 2½–3 years, together with little interest in other children, is worth mentioning at the 24-month visit or to the pediatrician. Development varies widely; this is a prompt to ask, not a diagnosis.
Sources
- Learn the Signs. Act Early. — milestone checklists (2022 revision) — CDC / American Academy of Pediatrics
Compiled with AI assistance from the public sources listed above. Not yet reviewed by a clinician — check anything important against the source, with Tipat Halav or with your doctor.