Pretend play is a type of imaginative play where children use their creativity to act out different roles and scenarios. This can involve using toys, costumes, or even everyday objects to create a story or situation. For example, a child might pretend to be a doctor treating a stuffed animal or a chef cooking in a play kitchen. This form of play is important for child development as it helps enhance social skills, problem-solving abilities, and emotional understanding. Through pretend play, children learn to express their feelings, cooperate with others, and explore different perspectives, which are essential skills for their growth.