Research has found that many cognitive developments are closely tied to imaginative play. One is a concept called, “theory of mind,” your child’s realization that other people’s thoughts differ from their own. 🧠 👀 👉Studies seem to indicate that the more your child participates in pretend play, the more sophisticated their “theory of mind” awareness becomes. This is because make-believe allows your child to see the world through the eyes of other people, like you, their siblings, and their friends. “When children use toys to introduce possible scenarios or friends, the representation of multiple perspectives occurs naturally,” wrote cognitive psychologist Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD, in a 2013 article he co-authored for Scientific American magazine. “Taking on different roles allows children the unique opportunity to learn social skills such as communication, problem-solving, and empathy.” This suggests, Kaufman concluded, that “make-believe games are forerunners of the important capacity for forms of self-regulation, including reduced aggression, delay of gratification, civility, and empathy.” Tap the link in our bio to get early pretend play essentials for your little one. 💫 #Definitions #TheoryOfMind #CognitiveDevelopment #PretendPlay #Lovevery #TikTokShop #Toys #Montessori #KidsToys