There is something magical about dress ups because it allow us to be whatever we want to be. When you give children not just the possibility to dress up but also to create their very own design using loose fabric the possibilities are absolutely endless!
A dress up box filled with different loose fabrics and textile materials is always a popular resource during free play at our preschool. Everyday and all day there is always some creative minds and busy hands keen to make good use of what’s the box has to offer.
There are the detailed driven creators who will carefully choose their materials and place them with aesthetically intention, creating pieces that are carefully planned.
Others are drawn to volume, bulkiness, superposition and layering using all the materials at the same time creating a unstructured garments. Here the intention and fun lays on exploring how many pieces of fabric can one use in a single outfit.
Creating their very own dress ups is a wonderful way for children to explore their creativity and imagination. As children assemble their garments, they develop their resourcefulness, engage in problem-solving, exercise their creativity, practice self-help skills, develop language, practice turn-taking, cooperate with one another, and live out their dreams through play.
These activities help to foster a sense of independence and self-reliance, while also promoting collaboration and socialisation skills. Additionally, the imaginative play that comes with dressing up can help children explore their interests and emotions in a safe and nurturing environment.