Role Play Toys

Role play trains much more than imagination. Children talk and build dialogues, so their language and vocabulary grow. They step into someone else's shoes, so they learn empathy. They plan what happens next and solve problems. And they use their hands: screwing, hammering, combing and washing train fine motor skills. When they play with other children, they also learn to cooperate, take turns and agree on rules.

Role play also helps children prepare for new situations. A child who has "treated" a teddy with a toy doctor's kit at home is often calmer at a real doctor's appointment.

• Doctor. A wooden doctor's kit with 19 pieces in a carry case. More professions in other role play.
• Builder. A 2-in-1 wooden workbench with a hammer, spanner, screwdriver, screws and gears that turns into a toolbox. See tools and workbench.
• Hair and beauty. A wooden vanity table with a real mirror and 11 play accessories. More in vanity tables and beauty sets.
• Housework. A toy vacuum cleaner with real suction that lets children help tidy up. See household play sets.
• Kitchen. A 2-in-1 play sink with running water for washing-up games. Play kitchens and tableware are in play kitchens and tableware.

A child does not need many toys for rich play. One theme and an adult who sometimes joins in as the patient, customer or shopper is enough. Let your child lead the story and do not correct "wrong" solutions. Add everyday objects: a cloth, an empty box, an old phone. That makes the game longer and more interesting.

After playing, put everything back into the case or box together. Your child learns to keep things tidy, and pieces do not get lost. A case or a box with a lid also makes it easy to take the game to grandparents or on a trip.

The doctor's kit, workbench and vanity table in this collection are mostly wooden. They are durable and pleasant to touch. The vacuum cleaner and the sink have real functions, which makes children feel like real helpers. Both types are good. The choice depends on what your child wants to copy. You will also find wooden role play toys in wooden toys and Montessori toys.