Related Show: Arthur
Pretend Play: Caring for Baby
When Arthur offers to watch Baby Kate so his parents can relax, he finds out that taking care of a baby isn’t easy — especially with D.W. around! But as he takes care of his baby sister, he learns lessons in developing self-confidence and compassion towards others. Playing pretend with a stuffed animal and doll is a great way to practice taking care of others, such as a friend or family member.
Help your child identify the many jobs they encounter that involve caregiving for babies, including daycare providers, pediatric doctors and nurses — and their own family members. Ask your child to think about things they can do that a baby can’t do yet. It’s probably a lot of things! Now ask your child to think of some ways that they can help care for a baby, such as giving the baby a bottle or entertaining the baby with a game. Play pretend with a doll or stuffed animal to let your child practice caring for a baby to support their becoming empathic and learning how to show compassion and patience for other. They may become inspired to try to help take care of a younger sibling, cousin or friend and in general feel connected to the younger child knowing that they used to be that little, too.
Materials
Directions
Begin playing by asking your child what their baby needs to do today. Do they have a routine they follow when they get up in the morning? Help your child come up with ideas to help the baby wake up and get ready for the day. Your child may come up with ideas related to your current routine. Or they may surprise you with creative ways to get dressed or eat breakfast. Ask your child questions, such as, “What can we do to make sure the baby is comfortable? What does the baby need to start their day?”
Now show your child games that they can play with a baby, like “Peek-a-boo” or “This Little Piggy.” Ask your child to play these games with you or with their doll or stuffed animal. Keeping a baby engaged all day is a lot of work! Ask your child questions, such as, “Who plays with you all day? What games do you like to play? What type of game can both us and the baby play?”
Once your child has played a few games with their doll or stuffed animal, see what happens when you suggest that it’s nap time. What does your child do to help their baby fall asleep? Have your child practice putting a baby to sleep by rocking their doll or stuffed animal or singing a lullaby. Ask your child questions, such as, “Who helps you feel calm? How do naps help?”
When the baby wakes up, suggest making a snack together. Find out if your child’s doll or stuffed animal likes certain foods. What kind of food do they want to feed their baby? What does their baby need while they eat? Talk to your child about who makes snacks for them and find out what they enjoy.
Want more “Arthur” activities? Create a family handshake and give awards to everyday heroes to continue the fun!
Emotions & Self-Awareness
Social Skills
Character
- Activity Type
- Craft
- Topics