Dress-Up Role Play

Dress-Up Role Play is a free, NQF-aligned Music, Drama & Dance activity for ages 4 to 9. It includes a learning intention, a materials list, step-by-step instructions and framework links.

Learning intention

This experience supports children to develop a confident self-identity and to build narrative and language.

You'll need

• Dress-up costumes
• Face paint (patch-test first)
• Props

How to do it

1. Set out a range of dress-ups linked to children's interests.
2. Children choose costumes and create characters.
3. They invent and act out their own adventures.
4. Encourage cooperative storytelling between characters.

Curriculum links

MTOP

• 1.3 Children and young people develop knowledgeable, confident self-identities and a sense of positive self-worth
• 5.1 Children and young people interact verbally and non-verbally with others for a range of purposes

NQS

• 1.2.3 Child directed learning - Each child's agency is promoted, enabling them to make choices and decisions that influence events and their world.

Frequently asked questions

What NQF outcomes does Dress-Up Role Play support?

Dress-Up Role Play is mapped to MTOP 1.3, MTOP 5.1, NQS 1.2.3. Each framework link is quoted in full on this page.

What age group is Dress-Up Role Play for?

This activity suits ages 4–9.

What do I need for Dress-Up Role Play?

You will need Dress-up costumes, Face paint (patch-test first) and Props.

How long does Dress-Up Role Play take?

Allow about 30 min.