The role of imagination in preschool children – and how parents can foster it

Imagination in preschool children is far more than just "play" – it is a key tool for developing creativity, empathy, and problem-solving skills. When children invent stories, slip into other roles, or imagine new worlds, they train their brains in a variety of ways: They learn to think flexibly, to empathize with others, and to develop their own problem-solving strategies.

Parents can actively foster this natural ability in their children – and without much effort. Simply telling everyday stories together or continuing the narrative of a picture book opens up spaces for creative thinking. Role-playing with cuddly toys or dressing up helps children express feelings and reenact social situations. And last but not least, imaginative audio plays and bedtime stories stimulate the imagination by connecting language, mental images, and emotions.

Preschool age is also a phase in which children begin to experiment with logical thinking and basic problem-solving. Imaginative stories with riddles or simple conflicts prepare them to understand more complex relationships later on. Small, creative "everyday exercises"—such as inventing an alternative ending to a well-known fairy tale—also playfully promote this ability.

Our Lenabo Smart Toy System builds on this very principle: Our audio content grows with the child – from imaginative animal stories and first puzzles to learning content for school readiness. This way, imagination isn't just child's play, but becomes the foundation for later learning and social interaction.