The benefits of dramatic play for young children

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the benefits of dramatic play for young children. As stated by Davis (2011), it is important that early years’ settings provide children with spaces, materials and time that support their need to explore real life or imaginary scenarios. This study analyses the benefits of dramatic play for young children when they are inspired and act out everyday scenarios and experiences. The data for this research was collected by conducting observations in a Kindergarten II class, and consequently implement a programme of three field trips or contextualised experiences followed by related dramatic play areas set-up in the classroom. The data was collected through: observations, field notes, interviews with the Kindergarten Assistant, and conversations with children. Photographs were also another important tool of data collection which was used to capture the children’s development throughout the activities. The findings have illustrated the benefits that derive from the effects of dramatic play on young children, more specifically the ways in which dramatic play may enable children to better explore and understand the world around them, to develop their language skills and to maintain new relationships.