Imaginary play, also called pretend play, is a powerful and natural part of childhood development. During imaginary play, children use objects, actions, and ideas to represent other situations, people, or experiences. A block may become a phone, a stick may become a magic wand, or a child may take on the role of a parent, doctor, superhero, or teacher.Through this type of play, children practice problem-solving, language, creativity, and emotional understanding. Imaginary play gives children a safe space to explore emotions and experiences they may not fully understand yet. A child pretending to care for a “sick” doll, for example, might be processing a recent doctor visit. It also supports social development as children negotiate roles and storylines with peers, learning cooperation and empathy. By inventing scenarios and characters, children strengthen imagination and flexible thinking—skills that benefit both academic learning and everyday life. Imaginary play: Raring2go! Raring2go! Raring2make! 26 raring2go.co.uk 27 Here are 10 unique and thoughtful Christmas gift ideas that move beyond the typical holiday presents: 1. Custom Star Map: A framed star map that shows the night sky as it appeared on a speci c date, such as the recipient’s birthday, an anniversary, or Christmas Eve. 2. Personalized Recipe Book: A custom recipe book where you can gather family recipes, personal favourites, or even create a themed cookbook for the recipient to enjoy. 3. Experience Gift: Give the gift of an experience like cooking classes, concert tickets, a weekend getaway, or a subscription to an activity box (such as a wine or art subscription). 4. Eco-Friendly Starter Kit: A thoughtful gift for sustainability enthusiasts, including reusable shopping bags, stainless steel straws, a bamboo toothbrush, and ecofriendly cleaning products. 5. Memory Jar: Create a jar lled with handwritten notes of memories, compliments, or reasons you’re grateful for the recipient. They can read one whenever they need a boost. 6. DIY Craft Kit: as candle-mak g A kit for a fun DIY project, such as candle-making, knitting, or even building a birdhouse. It’s a perfect way for someone to get creative. 7. Subscription Service: Sign them up for a subscription box that matches their interests. Examples include book clubs, snack boxes, wine clubs, or monthly ower deliveries. 8. Personalised Blanket: A cosy, custom-made blanket with the recipient’s name, initials, or a favourite quote. You can also have it in their favourite colour or pattern. 9. Wellness Basket: A thoughtful collection of wellness items like scented candles, bath salts, essential oils, skincare products, and a plush robe for a relaxing self-care experience. 10. Customised Calendar: Create a personalized calendar lled with photos of memorable moments, family pictures, or their favourite quotes to brighten their year ahead. These alternative ideas can be a way to give something meaningful, practical, and memorable this Christmas! 10 IDEAS FOR CHRISTMAS GIFTS RECIPE BOOK CALENDAR
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDA0NjA=