My niece visited me with her five and seven year old daughters. After a quick hello, the girls announced that we were going to have a tea party.   They had come prepared.  Out of their pink backpacks came little pink cups, saucers, and a matching teapot.  Thanks to their mommy, who filled the teapot and supplied the cookies, we were able to set a very pleasant table indeed.

As we began our party time, the expressly feminine little girls became the ultimate in good manners and poise.  They sat taller, folded their hands and were the epitome of charm and etiquette.  Emily Post would have been proud.

I couldn't help but think of the days when my younger sister, Linda, and I were the generation playing the role of ladies at tea.  Sitting at our red enameled table with matching chairs, we daintily lifted our pretty little tea cups and thought we were something grand.   I  smile as I relive the moment, looking at the picture of  four year old me sipping imaginary tea, and giggling at Linda's antics.

Children need times like this.  I don't know that little boys would choose to set a tea table, maybe they'd choose to 'belly up to the bar', I don't know, but I do know that pretending is fun, inventive and a great avenue for children to use their imagination.

To encourage other imaginative play, keep a box with a few discarded adult clothes, hats and scarves.  Maybe if there are some fake moustaches, overalls or other manly attire, the boys will want to play too.   Let them perform to their heart's delight. Give them the freedom to play for the joy of playing, stretching beyond who they are into what they can visualize.

Even though I am glad I have the picture of Linda and me, I would suggest that you not take pictures every time.  Let the kids play without feeling it is being recorded for others to see.  Just let them be.

Play time is a good time.  Moms, make sure you get a little play time for yourself as well.  Why not have a tea party with your kids?

The Schoolmarm

Good News! To keep the momentum from Cyber Monday going, our offer for the Eco-Friendly Tea Set for ONLY $15 will be extended. These tea sets are environmentally friendly, made from recycled milk jugs!  CLICK HERE for more details.  I'm sure some lucky little girl will love it.

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