One of the things I love most about a play cloth is that it can be whatever the child decides to use it for. Here are twelve ways you could use a cloth, though of course there are many more. And what’s best? Most of them need nothing more than the toys you already have.
1. A small world
Lay it flat and add figures. Farm animals on Around the farm, sea creatures on Amongst corals, dinosaurs on Land before our time. Read more in my guide to small world play.
2. A den
Drape a cloth over two chairs, a table or a play frame and you have a hideaway. Add a cushion and a torch for reading.
3. A cape or costume
Tie two corners loosely and it becomes a cape, a cloak or a superhero outfit.
4. A theatre backdrop
Hang a cloth over a doorway or a rod and let puppets or figures perform from behind it.
5. A backdrop for play shelves
Pin a cloth behind a low shelf or a toy kitchen to set the scene for the toys in front of it.
6. Wall art
When it is not in use, hang it up. A cloth looks beautiful on a bedroom or playroom wall, and it is always within reach when someone wants to play.
7. Tummy time and baby play
For the youngest, a cloth on the floor gives something soft and interesting to look at during tummy time.
8. Storytelling
Use the scene to tell a story together. Ask “who lives here?” or “what happens next?” and see where it goes.
9. A picnic blanket
Teddy bear picnics on the living room floor, or real picnics in the garden.
10. A seasonal table
Use a cloth as the base for a nature or seasonal table and change it through the year.
11. Travel play
A cloth folds flat and weighs very little, so it is easy to take along. Pack a handful of figures and play can happen anywhere.
12. Gift wrap
Wrap a present in a cloth, the Japanese art of furoshiki. The wrapping is part of the gift and nothing gets thrown away.
These are just starting points. Children will find uses I have never thought of, and that is exactly the point of open-ended play. You can see more ideas on my Ways to play page.
Happy playing,
Vi x
