Two-year-olds enjoy dressing up, and the costumes they have fun wearing don't have to be complicated or expensive. Your child will enjoy just going through your drawers and closets for his supply of costumes — since that's the best way for him to pretend to be a grown-up. Don't be surprised if your daughter puts on a man's vest or if your son tries to wear high heels. Their preferences have nothing to do with gender and everything to do with imitating their parents.

Activity 1: Hats and Scarves

One of the easiest ways to let your child play with clothes is to give her hats (especially cowboy hats, fedoras, and big hats, which are lots of fun for two-year-olds). Pair the hat with some scarves, and she'll feel like a new person — someone grownup and exciting! She'll especially like to dance and wave the scarves around, so make sure there is music playing.

Activity 2: Superhero Costume

A Spiderman, Buzz Lightyear, or Batman costume can cost $30, and your child may grow out of it before feel you got your money's worth. Your two-year-old can exercise his imagination by creating his own superhero costume. Supply him with tights or leggings, an interesting bathing suit, or pair of shorts, a mask (make one out of construction paper and string or a ribbon), and a cape (use a blanket or piece of old sheet) — and presto! You have your own original superhero.

Activity 3: Dressing Like Mom and Dad

If you have some old clothes, hand them over to your two-year-old and let her pretend to be you. She will especially love trying to walk in your shoes, wearing your sunglasses, and putting on your jackets, dresses, and pants.