Extensive use of "role speech" and meta-play talk to direct the narrative.
Hidden or explicit rules that guide behavior (e.g., "Moms don't leave the baby alone"). Developmental Benefits matureplay
Use of symbolic substitutes, like using a block as a phone rather than needing a toy phone. Extensive use of "role speech" and meta-play talk
Play and self-regulation: Lessons from Vygotsky - ResearchGate matureplay
Children spend significant time planning the scenario and negotiating roles before acting.