Dolly Hospital
To develop empathy and caring behaviours through nurturing play with dolls and toy animals.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Personal, Social & Emotional
- Learning area: Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Shows nurturing behaviours
- Uses caring language
- Demonstrates empathy in play
- Transfers caring to real situations
Materials
- Dolls and soft toys
- Bandages and plasters
- Doctor's kit
- Blankets and beds
Instructions
SETTING UP PLAY: 'Oh dear! Teddy has hurt his paw! He's feeling sad. Can you help make him better? What does he need? A bandage? A cuddle?'
MODELLING CARE: Show caring actions: gently putting on a bandage, tucking in with a blanket, speaking softly. 'There, there, Teddy. We'll look after you. You'll feel better soon.'
EXTENDING LANGUAGE: Introduce caring vocabulary: 'You're being so gentle with dolly. You're nursing her. You're showing empathy—that means you care about how she feels.'
CONNECTING TO REAL LIFE: 'Remember when you fell over and bumped your knee? Your friend was so kind. Now you're being kind to Teddy. That's what caring friends do.'