Children love acting out pretend tea parties or café dates.

Did you know?

Increasingly complex pretend play helps emotional, social and cognitive development.

Children can explore different roles and practice social skills in taking turns to be the waiter or customer.

Add language

Use new or more specific words such as “delicious” instead of “yummy”, “Would you like the smartie biscuit or the melting moment?”, ask for the “bill” and “where is my change?” when you pay.

Other development

Checking if you have enough cups for everyone and sharing out food equally develops early math concepts.

Variations

Use playdough to make food for the tea party.
Pretend to write down orders, make the drinks and serve.
Try changing the scene to a tea party at home or different kinds of restaurants.

Across the ages

All the activities listed on our “Play Ideas” page can be applied across different age groups. See how tea party play can be fun for babies, toddlers and playgroups.

 

Activities listed under “child” are suitable for children 3 years and older.  Children of this age enjoy more complex activities where they can develop their skills and use their imagination while playing with friends.

Play ideas