What is parallel play characterized by?

Parallel play is characterized by children playing beside one another while engaging in their own activities without direct interaction. This type of play is commonly observed in young children, as they often enjoy being near their peers but may not yet have developed the social skills needed for cooperative play. In parallel play, although children may be in close proximity to each other, they are focused on their individual tasks or toys, which allows them to explore and learn at their own pace, while still being aware of their peers.

The distinction of parallel play is significant in understanding the developmental stages of play in children. It serves as a critical transitional phase toward more interactive forms of play, such as associative play or cooperative play, where children begin to engage with one another more directly and collaboratively.