Public Service
Children have long played games together like "Cops and Robbers." Different groups of children play this classic game differently but it is generally described as one group of children acting as police officers and trying to capture the bad guys. It is essentially a complex version of tag with a public service sheen. Another occupation children like to playact is the firefighter. Firetrucks are available at most toy stores, and children love to concoct complex scenarios for their imaginary firemen to act out. These games and activities instill a respect at an early age for the brave men and women of our police and firefighting forces.
Medical Field
The medical field is one that many parents wish their children would enter into one day. Playing doctor has long been connected to underage salacious activity, but it more appropriately shows a child's natural curiosity and willingness to explore. Guide a child's desire to explore the medical field. There are many toys that resemble actual medical equipment like thermometers or stethoscopes. As your child plays with these, make sure they know their real uses and what kinds of aid they provide to doctors. There are also numerous video games both online and for home consoles that explore the medical field. They are not completely realistic, but they can still instill a healthy interest in the many areas of the medical field.
Scientific Field
The scientific field is vast and a love for science begins with many people at an early age. After watching one of many educational programs about a variety of scientific topics, your child may want to further explore her interests. While not a traditional game, a child with an interest in outer space will love having her own telescope. Kids can look to the stars at night and learn to identify constellations and planets. It will become a fun activity you can foster, and perhaps they will one day expand this into the professional realm. Budding chemists can benefit from one of the many chemistry sets on the market. These are safe and fun ways for groups of young scientists to witness chemical reactions and compounds and begin their scientific journey. There are also numerous computer games designed to teach children the benefits of scientific thinking. Mathematical concepts, testing hypotheses, logical thinking and questioning evidence are just some of the concepts and skills strengthened by the many educational titles available out there.
Education Field
Many children love to pretend to teach others. Using his vivid imagination, an 8-year-old child can dynamically conceive of an interesting lesson plan to deliver to a "classroom" of his peers. This group of peers can comprise stuffed animals, dolls or even smaller children. Your child will enjoy the rapt attention of this group, and as a result, his imagination will be stimulated as he imparts his knowledge onto others. These imagination games will also help strengthen your child's respect for teachers and allow him to hopefully become a better student in the future. Consider encouraging your child's make-believe teaching sessions so that he will have a fun time and reap some of these benefits.