Doctor's Surgery Role Play
To develop specialised vocabulary and social language through healthcare-themed role play.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Communication & Language
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Uses medical vocabulary in play
- Takes on different speaking roles
- Describes feelings and sensations
- Shows empathy through language
Materials
- Play medical kit (stethoscope, bandages, thermometer)
- Appointment book and pens
- Waiting area with magazines
- Teddy bears as patients
Instructions
Model being the doctor first: 'Hello! What seems to be the matter? Does your tummy hurt? Let me listen with my stethoscope. Deep breaths!' Use real medical words simply.
Encourage children to describe symptoms: 'Tell the doctor where it hurts. Is it your arm? Does it hurt a lot or a little?' Support them in articulating.
Introduce caring language: 'Poor teddy! He's feeling poorly. Let's make him better. I'll put a bandage on his leg. There, all better!' Model empathetic responses.
Rotate roles so children experience different language: the receptionist says 'Take a seat, the doctor will see you soon,' the patient explains their problem.