During which stage is playing dress-up in parents' clothing typically observed?

Playing dress-up in parents' clothing typically occurs during the preschool stage of development. This behavior is a significant marker of imaginative play, which is prominent during this period. At this age, children are developing their identities and understanding of gender roles, and dressing up allows them to explore these aspects in a playful and creative way. During preschool years, children engage in more complex forms of play, including role play, which helps them to experiment with social norms, express their creativity, and develop language skills.

In contrast, while toddlers may show interest in clothing and might enjoy simple forms of play that involve objects from their environment, their imaginative play is not as advanced or thematic as in preschoolers. Adolescents, on the other hand, are more focused on personal identity and peer acceptance; dress-up for them may not involve the innocent playfulness seen in preschoolers. Infants lack the cognitive and physical capabilities for such imaginative play, as they are still developing basic motor skills and sensory exploration. Thus, preschool is the most appropriate stage for this type of play.