Why a dress-up box is part of creative education

Do you have a dress up box for your children?

One of the reasons I started Atelier Spatz was that I grew up with a seafarer chest full of costumes passed down from my grandparents. I wanted my kids to have the same and be able to dive into it whenever they desired a moment of escapism.

But apart from being a wonderful addition to a child’s playroom, they are so much more than just a bit of fun:

• Putting on a costume is part of creative eduction. Making costumes available to your child at home means they can tap into this resource at anytime they want and spark their imagination.

• Investing in a dress-up box is like taking a journey with your child. Each garment you put in there can serve several characters and each story your child creates is also a cherished memory of their childhood.

• Gathering your costumes in one location, whether it’s a chest, a box, a basket or a wardrobe is also a wonderful way creating a safe space for their imagination. The box will become like a cherished treasure chest. And as a parent myself, I can tell you that it’s just so much easier to keep all the costumes in one place.

• Dress-up boxes also encourage your kids to be more sustainable. Re-using a costume and finding multiple characters in a piece of clothing rather than thinking of one occasion and then throwing the costume out.

You don’t know where to start stocking your dress up box?

Here are the 6 essentials I believe should be in every child’s dress-up box.

The waistcoat: If you are unsure about what kind of costumer your kid is, start with a waistcoat. A waistcoat is super versatile from pirate, prince, Mad Hatter and inn keeper, to hide a cushion for a belly or to magic something out of.

The hat: Top hat, bowler, beanie, pirate hat, grenadiers fur hat, witches or wizard hat, – whatever it is, kids looooove hats and they make for great dramatic looks and can hide things, too.

The statement piece: Get them something that stands out: glitter, glam, sequins, billowing skirts, stars, anything that brings a sparkle to the show.

The superhero: Every kid should have an empowerment costume. Something they believe can make them “fly”. It doesn’t have to be a classic superhero outfit, but could be a personalised “super-waistcoat” or a “super tutu” that sparkles when you twirl. Don’t go for a replica of a movie hero either, let them find their own superpower and superpersonality.

The scarf: From belt to sash to turban to wrap top, there should be several of those in your box to create all sorts of looks and accessories. They are also great for carrying dolls and pull along toys so your costuming can become interactive role play.

The cape: Another super versatile piece, a good cape can serve a king or transform your kid into a stone. It’s the ultimate quick change into character with seconds to throw on and off.

And don’t forget to add some bonus items: dad’s old tie, a pair of high heels you don’t wear anymore, some costume jewellery, one of grandma’s silk scarves, or a walking stick.

Eventually, dress-up boxes become cherished heirloom treasures that can be passed down from generation to generation and will bring joy to your family for years.

Feel inspired? Browse the shop and see whether there is an item missing from your box that I can make for you. Dress-up boxes are always a work in progress and it’ll take a childhood to fill one.