Play is an important part of a child’s healthy development and one of the main ways for children to learn Xi. When your toddler plays with other children or meets other children on the playground, you may notice that your toddler interacts slightly differently than older children. Young children tend to play in parallel rather than directly with each other. Learn more about what parallel games are and what makes them unique.
What Is Parallel Play?
Parallel play is when two or more young children play in close proximity to or next to each other, but do not interact directly. They sometimes observe or even imitate another child. This type of game can be started between 18 months and 2 years old.
What Is an Example of a Parallel Game?
In early childhood, imitation and pretend play are common. An example of parallel play might be your child imitating what a playmate is doing, but doesn’t seem to interact directly with him. If a playmate is playing with blocks, your child may also decide to play with them.
Keep in mind that sharing is not a concept that has not yet been understood. For example, if there is only one truck and your child sees his playmate playing with it, he may decide to try to take it for himself. This can lead to a conflict that you need help resolving and perhaps can replace it by giving your child another toy.
Why Is Parallel Play Important?
Although it may seem strange to see your child playing independently next to another child instead of with that child, it doesn’t mean there’s a problem. Parallel play is an important part of a child’s development because it helps her understand relationships and how to get along with others.
As your child matures, you’ll see her play more collaboratively and use her imagination in a more positive way. All of these types of games are important for her development.
How Can You Help Your Child with Parallel Play?
Here’s how to help your child play in parallel:
- Give your child the opportunity to play with other children
- In the beginning, limit these playmates to two or three children at a time
- Be sure to monitor the activity so that you don’t get into fights over toys
- Keep the play area safe
- Never leave a child unsupervised.
Over time, parallel play will improve her social skills and allow your child to interact more directly with other children. A parallel playmate is the child’s first friend.
What Is the Age Range for Parallel Games?
Parallel play can start at about 18 months or 2 years of age and last for one to two years. However, every child is unique, and your child’s participation in this type of game may be slightly longer or shorter.
As your child prepares for preschool, you’ll notice that she interacts more with other children.
The Bottom Line
Parallel play is just another step in a child’s healthy development. Although it may seem strange to you that your child isn’t interacting with other playmates, it’s normal to play with them and a way for your child to learn the basics of social interaction Xi.
During this time, it is a good idea to arrange for your child to play with children of a similar age. Although they may not play together, play dates are great opportunities for social and emotional growth because they can help your child begin to learn how Xi build relationships.
Before you know it, you’ll notice that your child is interacting more directly with the kids around them, whether it’s at play, in kindergarten, or on the playground with the neighbors’ kids. You’ll love seeing how his world expands with each new adventure and seeing him make new friends.