As a mother and the creator of The Small Wonderland, I've seen firsthand the joy and learning that come from pretend play. What may look like “just play” to adults is actually a powerful tool for a child’s development — and that’s exactly why I pour my heart into making pretend play toys.
Imagination Builds the Foundation for Growth
When my daughter picks up a pretend dosa and offers me a plate, she's not just mimicking me — she's creating a story, learning roles, and practicing communication. Pretend play helps children make sense of their world. It builds imagination, encourages curiosity, and gives children a safe space to explore new ideas.
Whether they’re pretending to cook, serve food, or run a little home kitchen, they are engaging in a process of thinking, feeling, and learning.
Language Blooms in Play
Some of the cutest conversations I’ve had with my kids have happened during pretend play. Role play boosts vocabulary, sentence building, and expression. When kids play ‘kitchen-kitchen’, they learn how to name ingredients, form questions like “Do you want dosa or idly?”, and even practice social skills like taking turns or saying thank you.
These little interactions grow into big communication skills later on.
Confidence Through Role-Play
Pretend play is where children take charge. They become chefs, customers, caregivers, or shopkeepers. It gives them confidence to make choices, solve small problems, and feel important. For a 3-year-old, pretending to be “amma” while stirring imaginary sambar is empowering — and adorable!
I’ve seen shy children open up through simple play sessions. They begin to express themselves more freely and take pride in their creations.
Emotional Understanding Through Stories
When kids role-play situations, they also process emotions. Pretending someone is hurt and offering “pretend medicine” builds empathy. Cooking a meal for a sad teddy teaches care and kindness. These little acts are big emotional lessons.
Pretend play is like rehearsal for life — kids try out feelings and situations in a way that’s safe and manageable.
The Heart of Our Brand
This is why pretend play means so much to me — it’s not just about toys. It’s about nurturing imagination, building emotional strength, and helping children grow happily and naturally. At The Small Wonderland, every dosa, uttapam, and toy banana is made with the belief that play is powerful.
So the next time your child serves you an imaginary plate, take a bite, smile, and join in — you’re not just playing, you’re helping them build their world.
Falguni Gohil
Founder
