Certified Pediatric Nurse Exam Practice 2026 – Complete Study Resource

The type of play demonstrated by preschoolers playing dress-up is best identified as dramatic play. Dramatic play is characterized by children taking on roles and acting out scenarios, often using costumes and props to enhance their experience. In this type of play, children engage in role-playing activities, which helps them to explore different identities, emotions, and social interactions in a safe and imaginative environment.

Through dramatic play, preschoolers develop language skills, social skills, and emotional intelligence as they negotiate roles and express their feelings. The act of dressing up encourages creativity and allows children to experiment with different situations that they may encounter in real life, facilitating their understanding of the world around them.

Other types of play, such as imaginative play, while closely related, typically refers more to the creativity involved in creating stories or fantasies without necessarily enacting specific roles. Parallel play involves children playing alongside one another without much interaction, and team play generally refers to structured activities involving teamwork and cooperation, which are less common in preschool-age children.