Children love to imitate the actions of others, especially their parents or other adults who play a large role in their lives. One of the best opportunities for them to do so is by have a child sized home all their own. While having a place to call their very own has always been something that is enjoyed by children, it also provides them with the opportunity to use their imagination while they play.

A pretend home will encourage your child to use critical thinking that will prepare him/her to start learning when it comes time for school. Role playing requires critical thinking which is the result of analyzing and problem solving, so it gives children the place where they can perform activities that they have seen you do many times and also help them learn to think!

By furnishing your child's pretend home with some of the same furnishings that are in your real home, you will give him/her the tools needed to mimic your actions. Children use these tools to help them make decisions and learn many of the lessons needed in their later years to adapt to society, compete, and to show empathy for others. It also allows them to interact with other children.

There are many choices available that are suitable as pretend homes for all ages of children. You should also consider that many styles are made for boys and they are not for girls only! Firehouses and castles are some of the themes used for the little boys while cottages and princess castles are designed with the little girls in mind. While there are those made for both indoor and outdoor use, the age of your child should help you determine which would be most appropriate for your child. You should also consider the area where you would keep the home and how secure it is. If you have a three or four year old child that is going to want to play in her pretend home all day long, you will want it to be where you can easily watch her while tending to your own chores.

Choosing a home that is safe and contains only those toys that are safe for their age as well will make it a safe place that you and your child will both feel good about letting them stay in for as long as they want.

To encourage your child's imagination in the new pretend home, provide the furniture, appliances, and appropriate toys to go along with the theme. For instance, if you want your little boy to feel like a knight in shining armor, a toy shield and sword will help bring his imagination to life. If your little girl has her own princess cottage, then she should have the royal outfit and tiara to go with it. If your child is more interested in following your lead, then you may want to add more accessories to the kitchen or tools for a workshop!

Whatever your child's interest, favorite color, or age, there are many pretend homes to choose from that will serve his/her interests!