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Children playing with the Multi-Level Classroom Dollhouse
Use pretend play to reduce anxieties
Fears can sometimes be overwhelming and persistent. Provide props so children can play out their fears and practice with friends how they might act in a scary situation.

Support conversations

Using materials independently to create interesting dialogues during play builds verbal communication skills and promotes a sense of mastery over circumstances.

Play it out

Children are likely to repeat a traumatic event through play to try to master it.

Pretending to be a doctor or a parent allows children to switch from feeling out of control to being in charge.

Ann Barbour, PhD Play Today: Building the Young Brain Through Creative Expression
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Build confidence

Using props to act out scenarios, a child can feel empowered and confident as he gains control of a situation.