Dramatic Play
Encouraging Dramatic Play With Your Seven-Year-Old
Encouraging Dramatic Play With Your Seven-Year-Old
For 7-year-olds, dramatic play continues, but often more informally than in earlier years. As children grow through this stage, dramatic play more often becomes something they do by themselves (such as with toys). It can be a valuable unstructured opportunity to release emotional tension or problem solve, and can be a good balance to school, which becomes increasingly structured during this period. At this age, children are also developing the maturity to be good audience members. With some preparation, they can attend performances appropriately and appreciatively. Some children may also be interested in pursuing more formal dramatic and theater activities at school or in the community. Talk to their teachers, other parents and your librarian to find opportunities to participate at school or in the community.