TODDLERS DOLL'S PLAY The modern concept of childhood as a distinct, happy life stage first developed in the 19th century, and in this era factory-made toys - including dolls and dolls houses - became popular with wealthy families. Playing with dolls helps children understand their world. Activities such as dressing, bathing and feeding the dolls improve fine motor and self-help skills. This type of play is based on a child's imagination, so it encourages creativity and expands language, as well as developing emotional bonds. Dolls enable a child to practise caring and nurturing an external object, and can also teach them about different roles of people in their day-to-day life. CREATIVE AND TIMELESS TOYS WILL LAST FOR YEARS, SO YOU CAN PASS THEM ON TO ANY YOUNGER SIBLINGS www.athomemagazine.co.uk J UN E 201 7 | 099http://www.athomemagazine.co.uk