Pretend serving creates reasons to ask, answer, offer, and take turns. A familiar everyday routine becomes a little story your child can direct, with opportunities to imagine what another person wants.
Invite two stuffed animals to tea. Let your child choose a cup for each, pretend to pour, and ask who needs a refill. Join their story without correcting how tea parties should work.
Let the play grow with them
Begin with pouring and serving. Later, add a pretend café, an order, or a guest who would like something different.
A no-shopping version
Set out a few unbreakable cups you already own and invite a favorite stuffed animal.
