The Dress Up Box

In an ideal world, every child would have a dress up box. Dress up boxes are amazing places where children can transport themselves to a world of superheroes, fire fighters, dragons, pirate ships, construction sites or theater stages.It is also an imaginative place where kids can explore and challenge themselves, and discover likes and dislikes. They can pretend what it’s like to be mommies, fire fighters, wild animals, accountants, superheroes, ballerinas, and so much more. Dress up play can even allow children to try some new things on for size to help them overcome shyness and build self-confidence.Every family is unique, and of course there are as many differences of opinion on dress up as there are families. The best rule of thumb is: it doesn’t take a lot of money to make a great dress up box! Kids love using things that they’ve seen you use or wear, and sifting through it feels more like treasure! Depending on how you approach imaginative play, here are some ideas to talk over and consider:

The Classics:

Sunglasses/Hats/ScarvesDresses/suits (a quick trim and hem works well!)Ties/BeltsTights/Knee socksBoots/high heelsJewelryPurses/WalletsFeather BoaCurlers/Brushes

Accessories:

Cooking utensils/BowlsCalculatorPhones (throw in an old-fashioned dial phone for fun if you can find one!)Spiral pads of paperMirrors (unbreakable!)FlashlightMusical InstrumentsMasksRope (lassos, belts, leashes for stuffed animals)

The Specifics:

Magnifying GlassFirst Aid kit/StethoscopeSherriff badgeStick on mustachesPre-designed costumes: elbow length gloves, princess dresses, tiaras, nurse/doctor costumes, superhero costumes--many of these are over 50% off in the days after Halloween. Post-Christmas is also a great time to look for deals.Pirate hatsCowboy Hats/Handkerchief

The Creative:

Paper towel/Christmas tubesLoofah spongesLong pieces of fabric (various textures and prints)Jewels (sticker or press on)A roll of painter’s tape (easy to use and won’t stick to walls)Old sheets/blankets (for all kinds of imaginative scenarios-forts, beds, theater curtains)

Remember to check with grandparents or older relatives for things they might have to add! Have fun!Leanne Powell, 2016