One way to encourage dramatic play is to create play boxes. Tammy Benson gives the following suggestions: Build around thematic units, collect inexpensive materials, allow enough time for play, add literacy or print to the box and add items to promote character development.
This is always a favorite for children. Collect empty food containers and plastic produce. Boxed goods such as cereal and graham crackers work well for food items. Add household items such as laundry detergent containers and shampoo bottles. A shopping cart, grocery bags and a cash register will complete this center.
Line up chairs to mimic the interior of an airplane. Child-size belts or loose bungee cords can serve as seat belts. Place two larger chairs at the front for the cockpit. Draw dials and buttons on a folded poster board for the cockpit instruments and place on a table in front of the pilot seats. The pilots will need headphones. Collect empty juice boxes for refreshments to be served by the flight attendants. Stuffed animals can fill in empty passenger seats. Small cardboard boxes can be fitted with duct tape handles for suitcases.
To create a restaurant theme collect play food, take-out menus and plastic dishes. The children can also make their own menus by cutting out food pictures from magazines. Add a dining table with a table cloth and an apron for the chef. To supplement the play food, add several cans of modeling clay that the chef can make into food. Provide play money for the customers and the cash register.
Collect stuffed animals, laundry baskets for cages and pretend pet food. Food and water bowls, grooming items and pet toys will keep the participants busy. Add a counter for the cash register and play money. A few adjustments can turn the store into a pet shelter or veterinary office.