# Open a pretend shop

Canonical URL: https://www.kigomo.com/cards/open-a-pretend-shop

Last updated: 2026-10-12T19:22:46.747Z

Set out a few toys or empty clean food boxes on a shelf as a shop\. Take turns as shopper and shopkeeper, saying hello, asking for an item, and handing over a pretend coin or paper\. Swap roles with your toddler and a friend\.

## Activity facts

- Age range: 1–4 years
- Duration: 20 min
- Location: At home
- Category: Playdates
- Type: Activity

## Why it matters

Pretend shopping gives children a shared script to follow, which makes it easier to play together\.

## Benefit

Pretend play

## Materials

- Empty clean boxes
- Toys
- Paper for pretend money

## Safety note

Use clean boxes with no sharp edges, and keep any pretend coins larger than a toilet\-paper tube\.