A few days ago we were visiting Fran’s parents with Ale, and they came up from the basement carrying an old Chicco cash register toy . An old toy, which belonged to her or his brother and going back to (at least) 25 – 30 years ago, but in perfect condition.
Be it that they have kept it – box included, with all the necessary care, be it that maybe once goods were made to last and not to break or anyway be dumped in few months ..
Once home, we started using our good old cardboard box as a veggie market bench and together with Ale’s latest Christmas gift (some sliceable wooden fruits), and began playing a new game.
In turn, Fran, Ale and I acted as grocery man, cashier and customer. He actually didn’t really get the point in handling coins and notes in exchange for fruit, and either forced us to buy everything in his store filling all the veggies in our bags or exceeded with the change emptiing his cash register.
The game went on, and Ale was so excited he kept on by himself for quite a while, moving from one side of the shop to the ohter to fill all the roles at the same time, walking with his doll, with his shopper hanging or cutting all the fruits he had. And opening and closing the cashregister to slip in notes or throwing coins to hear them rattle.
Another nice time with our baby, thanks only to a old cardboard box, a very old toy and some imagination. With this kind of games, call Simbolic Play, any kid can hava fun while learning and discovering the world, imitating adult activities.
