That night I learned that you can't create in a vacuum. It is vital to give structured direction and practice time before you expect anyone to try their own wings. Just as I needed one finished flower for a pattern, children need examples to imitate. That's why they play dress-ups, spacemen, doctor, etc. The most important role models of all are parents.
Little girls copy their mothers-feeding their dollies, sweeping the floor, fixing dinner.
Little boys follow their dad's lead-using tools to fix a broken chair, playing cars, building things. If either of these is missing, it is important to provide substitutes. She couldn't eat until her doll was strapped in the high chair and had a bowl on her tray. She had watched her mother time and time again take care of her daughter's needs before her own. Children absorb whatever they encounter.