From Wheels to Wonder: Expanding Your Child’s Play Into Pretend Play Using What They Love

From Wheels to Wonder: Expanding Your Child’s Play Into Pretend Play Using What

Does your child love cars, dinosaurs, dolls, or stuffed animals? Great! That’s not just a cute obsession—it’s a powerful tool for learning and growth. When we use what our children already love, we tap into their joy, focus, and creativity—and we can use that love to help them expand their play into pretend play.

Child pretending to check panda's health.

From Wheels to Wonder: Expanding Your Child’s Play Into Pretend Play Using What They Love

Why Pretend Play Matters

Pretend play isn’t just fun—it’s a critical piece of development. It helps kids:

• Build language and communication skills

• Practice emotional understanding and problem-solving

• Develop creativity and flexible thinking

• Rehearse real-life routines in a safe, playful way

And the best part? You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect setup or new toys. You just need your child’s favorite things and a little imagination.

Start With What They Love

Let’s say your child is obsessed with cars. (We see you, Lightning McQueen fans!) Use that love to bring their world to life through pretend play.

Start with something familiar—your daily routine.

The Daily Routine Framework (with a twist!)

Children thrive on routines. They know what comes next: waking up, brushing teeth, eating breakfast, getting dressed. That rhythm is a built-in storyline—and it’s perfect for pretend play.

Here’s how you might bring a car into that storyline:

🚗 “Mr. Car, it’s time to get up!” Open the garage door (aka your child’s toy bin), and say, “Good morning, Mr. Car! Time to wake up!” You can add a silly voice, stretch Mr. Car’s wheels, and make it playful.

🪥 “We have to wash up before breakfast!” Drive Mr. Car to the sink for a pretend “car wash.” Maybe he needs a pretend toothbrush or a wipe-down with a cloth. Add bubbles or make “vroom” sounds—whatever makes your child giggle!

🥣 “Is Mr. Car hungry? What should we feed him?” Set up a pretend mealtime. “Let’s make some applesauce soup for Mr. Car!” Whether it’s real snacks, pretend food, or invisible bananas—go with your child’s ideas. (Spoiler alert: cars eat the silliest things.)

🧸 “Time for a nap, Mr. Car. Let’s tuck you in.” Lay him down in a tissue box, under a napkin “blanket,” and sing a lullaby. Your child will love being the caregiver—and you’ll be amazed at their creativity when they take the lead.

Tips to Spark Imagination

• 🎯 Follow their lead. If your child starts “feeding” Mr. Car cereal, go with it! You’re building pretend play together.

• 🧠 Keep it simple. You don’t need a full script. A few playful lines like “Oh no, Mr. Car is dirty!” is enough to get started.

• 🗣️ Narrate and ask questions. “What should Mr. Car do next?” “Is he scared of the car wash?” “Should we sing a song?” Wait for your child to respond. If your child doesn't respond in 10-15 seconds, go ahead and ask the question again and this time answer it, modeling words your child might say next time.

• 😄 Be silly. The sillier, the better. That’s what keeps it fun—and that’s where learning lives.

Play Expands With Practice

Your child might only pretend for 30 seconds at first. That’s okay! With time, they’ll start adding their own ideas, mixing in new characters, and even inviting YOU to be the one who needs a nap. (If only!)

The goal isn’t a perfectly played-out scene. It’s to build connection, encourage creativity, and grow their skills through something they already love.

Let Their Joy Lead the Way

Whether your child loves trains, blocks, animals, or superheroes, you can use their favorites to bring routines to life. Pretend play helps them make sense of their world—and it’s a beautiful way for you to playfully connect with them.

So next time your little one grabs their favorite toy car, try asking:✨“What does Mr. Car want to do today?”✨

You might be surprised where the journey takes you.

Did you enjoy our post: From Wheels to Wonder: Expanding Your Child’s Play Into Pretend Play Using What? Let us know in the comments!

Feeling Overwhelmed? You’re Not Alone

We believe parents should feel empowered, not overwhelmed. If you’ve got questions or want to learn more:

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And remember, early support isn’t just intervention—it’s prevention, empowerment, and connection. And it’s never too early to be curious, ask questions, and seek guidance. We’re here for you, every step of the way. 🍼👣✨

With heart,

The NewDay Child Coaching Team

Rachel Lynn: Communication and Swallowing/Feeding Guide

Amber Michelle: Physical Development Guide

Amanda Rae: Fine Motor, Sensorimotor, Sensory/Feeding Guide

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