As children prepare for the exciting transition to school, they’re not just learning how to write their name or put on their coat independently. They’re also beginning to understand who they are in the world. At this stage, role models, both in real life and through play, can have a huge impact on children’s self belief, behaviour and aspirations.

Whether it’s someone they know personally or a character in a story or toy, preschoolers look to role models to help make sense of how people behave, what’s possible and what kind of person they might like to become.

Why Role Models Matter

Preschool children are naturally curious and absorb information from everything around them. Role models help them:

• Understand social behaviours and values
• Explore ideas of identity and self worth
• Imagine themselves in different roles (e.g. explorer, scientist, teacher)
• Learn what kindness, courage or teamwork look like in action

Why Representation Matters

All children benefit from seeing a diverse range of positive role models. For example:

• Girls need to see women leading, inventing, creating and solving problems, so they know they can do the same.
• Boys need caring, emotionally present male role models who show that it’s okay to be kind, gentle or vulnerable.
• All children need to see themselves represented in books, toys and the people around them – not as side characters, but at the centre of the story.

These early messages shape how children feel about their place in the world. When we broaden their view of what’s possible, we nurture confidence, curiosity and self-worth – all essential traits for starting school with a positive mindset.

Using Toys and Stories to Inspire

Toys and playtime are a natural and powerful way for children to connect with role models. Look for toys that inspire children…

Little Rebels

This empowering doll collection introduces children to real-life women who made a difference, like Amelia Earhart, Malala Yousafzai and Mary Jackson. Each doll comes with access to ebooks, videos etc to help children learn about bravery, equality and determination. Great for starting conversations and sparking role play based on real heroes.

Barbie

Modern Barbie has come a long way, with dolls now representing a huge range of careers – from doctor to conservationist to robotics engineer. The “You Can Be Anything” message helps children explore their interests and imagine their future, with dolls that show girls (and boys) that no job is off limits.

Plane Characters (Let’s Go See)

This fun and educational adventure series follows Captain Polly and Captain Ollie as they explore the world. Through books and animated episodes, children learn about different countries, cultures and geography – all while seeing both a male and female pilot working together in exciting and inspiring roles.

How Parents Can Support Role Modelling at Home

Talk about real-life heroes

Share stories about family members, community helpers or historical figures who showed bravery, creativity or compassion. Children love learning that real people can do amazing things.

Choose diverse books and toys

Look for characters from different backgrounds, with different abilities and interests. A single story can open the door to new dreams and perspectives.

Model the behaviour you’d like to see

Children watch and copy the grown-ups in their lives. Showing kindness, persistence, curiosity or how to manage frustration are all incredibly valuable examples.

Let them lead sometimes

Encourage children to be the ‘teacher’ or ‘explorer’ during play. This builds confidence and shows them they can lead, guide and create their own path.

Final Thoughts for Parents

As your child gets ready for school, don’t underestimate the power of the people (and characters) they look up to. Role models help shape how children feel about themselves and what they believe they can achieve.

By surrounding your child with inspiring, diverse examples – through toys, stories, conversations and the way you interact with the world – you’re giving them more than a head start. You’re helping them build an inner voice that says: “I can do this.” And that’s one of the most important tools they’ll carry into the classroom.