"Magical Realism" refers to situations that are basically real yet infused with magical or fantastical ideas. I love the idea of applying this term, usually reserved for literature and art, to early childhood development. As TBANS Framework for Early Education indicates, one significant task of the preschool years is to "figure out the lines between reality and fantasy." This is surprisingly challenging for young children, and it's our obligation to let them play with real and pretend scenarios as we guide them to a sturdier grasp of the distinction between them. Most children don't accomplish this goal until they are at least kindergarten age, though we support their evolving understanding in developmentally appropriate ways throughout the years. Following are two resources you can use to explore "Magical Realism" with your children.