The child's inner voice and puppet play: how puppet play shapes self-image and self-esteem

Did you know that the voice your child uses when they talk to their doll can become the inner voice they carry with them throughout their lives? The words we adults say to our children during the day seep into their play and become part of their own self-image.

How puppet play creates the child's inner voice

Research shows that children process their emotions and reflect on their experiences through doll play. When a child feeds their doll , they might say:

  • "Mmm, delicious! Oh, you spilled it, don't worry, we'll wipe it up!"
  • "Now it's time to sleep, do you want to sleep with me?"

These words not only become part of play, but can also shape how the child talks to himself in the future. A child who hears kind, comforting, and encouraging words while growing up develops an inner voice that says:

💛 "I do my best, and that's enough."

💛 "It's calm, everything will be okay."

💛 "I am worthy of love and respect."

Doll play as a tool for emotional development

Children who have difficulty expressing their feelings with words can communicate more easily through play. By talking to the doll, they get the opportunity to put their thoughts and feelings into words. Parents who engage in play can mirror and support their child's feelings, which strengthens their emotional development.

How you can use doll play to boost your child's self-esteem

Want to help your child develop a positive inner voice? Here are some simple ways to use puppet play in everyday life:

  1. Engage in play – Participate in your child's play and listen to what they say to their dolls .
  2. Ask questions – Ask the doll: “How are you feeling today?” and let the child answer.
  3. Mirror the child's feelings – If the child says "My doll is sad" , validate the feeling: "Yes, it's okay to be sad, what can we do to comfort her?"
  4. Use positive language – When talking to your child's doll, use words that build self-esteem and security.

Children’s inner voice is shaped by the words they hear and use in their play. By actively participating in doll play, we can help our children develop a loving and supportive inner dialogue. So the next time you see your child playing with a doll , take the opportunity to listen – you may discover a world of thoughts and feelings just waiting to be heard.

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