The verdict is in. The American Association of Pediatricians states that free play is a necessary part of the development of children, especially in the preschool through early school-age years. But how can a parent provide true imaginative play when so many of today’s toys are electronic with flashing lights and moving parts, leaving the child to just sit and watch?

Dress-Up play is fun for children through about age 10, depending on interests and aptitudes. Little girls love to dress up as kitties, princesses, and mermaids. Little boys enjoy costumes that transform them into pirates, astronauts, and policemen.

Consider investing in a set of costumes, which can be ordered online from a costume supply any time of year. A relatively small investment, it will pay off with dividends when your child learns roleplaying, and expands his or her imagination, simply by playing dress-up.

If you invite your child’s friends over for a dress-up party, your child will also benefit from practicing important social skills like sharing, service, roleplaying, and communication. Engaging in imaginative play with other children provides a great deal of learning for any child.

Dress-up play also helps a child understand more about himself or herself as the child explores different interests and tries on different personas. Confidence is something that is earned slowly over time, and dress-up play can encourage confidence by allowing a child to step outside of the social comfort zone and reduce inhibitions by playing an animal or performing as an “actress.”