What characterizes the progression from solitary play to associative play?

The progression from solitary play to associative play is characterized by an increased sharing of toys and communication among children. In associative play, children begin to engage more with their peers, interacting with one another while still maintaining some individual goals in their play. This marks a shift from solitary play, where a child plays independently without interaction with others, to a more social form of play where collaboration and communication become essential.

During associative play, children start to share materials, ideas, and experiences, which fosters social skills and helps them learn to work together. This interaction lays the groundwork for further developmental stages, such as cooperative play, where children not only share but also work together toward a common goal. The emphasis on increased sharing and communication is crucial, as it reflects the growing social awareness and relationships children are developing at this stage.