Hello and welcome back!
A little recap from part one… (skip this paragraph if our last bit of writing is still fresh in your memory): Neurodivergent children often play in distinctive ways. Since our last post, I’ve had several parents reach out and continue the conversation in our DMs and face-to-face. Agreeing that it can feel worrying if their children’s pretend play doesn’t look like “typical” play.
I get that when your child’s play looks different, it can leave you thinking all kinds of worrying thoughts. But rest assured, what you’re seeing is perfectly normal, and part of your child’s unique learning journey.
Research tells us that neurodivergent tamariki sometimes take a bit longer to get into pretend play. Their imaginative play unfolds in its own time, not slower but simply different. So let’s follow their lead and support each small step… here are a few gentle ways to support this kind of play.
Strategies to Encourage Imaginative Play
- Follow your child’s lead. Let the child’s interests and actions guide play. Get down to their level, narrate (in a few words, leave plenty of pauses) and imitate what they do – for instance, if they line up toy cars, comment (“One, two, three cars!”) and line up yours too. This parallel play shows you’re tuned in and can gently invite them into a back-and-forth game. You might like to wait for small cues (a smile, eye contact, gesture) and then join with a simple action or sound.
It’s easy to get carried away here (trust me, I’ve been there many times) and hijack the play that is already happening in order to ‘make it meaningful’ and ‘squeeze in some learning’. But that’s unnecessary – trust that what is already happening is enough and lean into it. Not only are you supporting the learning and interest that matters to your child, but you are also ensuring they feel seen.
In short, reflect and expand on whatever they’re enjoying. This responsive, child-led approach reassures them that their ideas are fun and valued. - Create a cosy, sensory-friendly space. Pay attention to sights, sounds and textures that might help or hinder your child’s engagement. For tamariki who are sensitive to noise or bright light, offer a quieter corner with soft lighting, calm music or their favourite cuddlies. A small tent, beanbag, or their blankie can make play feel safe. For children who seek extra sensory input, allow movement breaks or active play before or during pretend games. A short dance, jumping on a small trampoline, or swinging (if available) can help them regulate their energy.
In our recent Little Art Lab, one child got up and started playing with some balls nearby. Others soon joined in. We were halfway through the session at this point, and I could tell that these kids needed to move their bodies – so I Iet them! After a few minutes of play, I gently transitioned them into the next art play experience, which they enjoyed in a calm, regulated and attentive manner. Depending on the child, providing fidget toys, chewy jewellery or other sensory tools can also make the play setting more comfortable. - Model simple pretend play in daily routines. Many neurodivergent children benefit from seeing pretend play in action. One of the easiest ways to model this is through everyday moments. It’s one of my favourite things to do (not only when working with children 😅). Fun fact: I like being silly (I can see my friends and teaching colleagues nodding their heads at this). Being silly is fun and makes everyday life, especially the most mundane tasks and chores, a tad lighter and (I like to think) more humorous. And who doesn’t like to laugh?
For example, while preparing lunch, pretend the sandwich is talking (“I hope I get extra cheese today!”), or while doing laundry, let the sock puppet ‘help’ fold clothes. Keep it playful, brief, and low-pressure. These natural, spontaneous invitations into imagination show that pretending is fun and flexible, and they plant the seeds for your child to join in when they’re ready. Having done this at preschool many times, I’ve seen logic-loving children suddenly express empathy for a puppet or create entire structures for their invisible friends and creatures.
And just a little reminder as we’re nearing the end: Imaginative play doesn’t have to look a certain way to be meaningful. Whether your child is pretending with toys, exploring sounds and movements, or experimenting in quiet ways, it’s all valid. With patience and gentle support, imagination will grow – on your child’s timeline, in their own unique style.
Your questions, comments and feedback are, as always, welcome. ❤️
Happy playing and creating & until next time,
Franzi ✨
Imagine Play Inspire 