: By following the rules of a chosen role, children learn to control their impulses and emotions, a foundational skill for later academic and social success.

: In mature play, children use "object-substitutes" that may look nothing like the real object—such as using a simple box as a sophisticated spaceship. Eventually, these physical props may become unnecessary as the child uses gestures or words to represent imaginary objects.

Mature play is not just "fun"; it is often described as a child's most important "work". It provides several developmental advantages: