{"id":70728,"date":"2025-09-19T11:23:23","date_gmt":"2025-09-19T19:23:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/?p=70728"},"modified":"2025-09-19T12:01:25","modified_gmt":"2025-09-19T20:01:25","slug":"parallel-play-examples-benefits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/advice\/parallel-play-examples-benefits\/70728","title":{"rendered":"What Is Parallel Play"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1221\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-play-main-image-kids-with-blocks.jpg\" alt=\"Two young children engaging in parallel play. \" class=\"wp-image-70970\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-play-main-image-kids-with-blocks.jpg 1221w, 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d=\"M9.16033,4.038c0-.27174.02717-.43478.48913-.43478h6.22283c1.087,0,1.68478.92391,2.11957,2.663l.35326,1.38587h1.05978C19.59511,3.712,19.75815,2,19.75815,2s-2.663.29891-4.23913.29891h-7.962L3.29076,2.163v1.1413L4.731,3.57609c1.00543.19022,1.25.40761,1.33152,1.33152,0,0,.08152,2.71739.08152,7.20109s-.08152,7.17391-.08152,7.17391c0,.81522-.32609,1.11413-1.33152,1.30435l-1.44022.27174V22l4.2663-.13587h7.11957c1.60326,0,5.32609.13587,5.32609.13587.08152-.97826.625-5.40761.70652-5.89674H19.7038L18.644,18.52174c-.84239,1.90217-2.06522,2.038-3.42391,2.038H11.1712c-1.3587,0-2.01087-.54348-2.01087-1.712V12.65217s3.0163,0,3.99457.08152c.76087.05435,1.22283.27174,1.46739,1.33152l.32609,1.413h1.16848l-.08152-3.55978.163-3.587H15.02989l-.38043,1.57609c-.24457,1.03261-.40761,1.22283-1.46739,1.33152-1.38587.13587-4.02174.1087-4.02174.1087Z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">Etsy<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li style=\"color:#467ff7;background-color:#ffffff00;\" class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-chain  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/%20\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M15.6,7.2H14v1.5h1.6c2,0,3.7,1.7,3.7,3.7s-1.7,3.7-3.7,3.7H14v1.5h1.6c2.8,0,5.2-2.3,5.2-5.2,0-2.9-2.3-5.2-5.2-5.2zM4.7,12.4c0-2,1.7-3.7,3.7-3.7H10V7.2H8.4c-2.9,0-5.2,2.3-5.2,5.2,0,2.9,2.3,5.2,5.2,5.2H10v-1.5H8.4c-2,0-3.7-1.7-3.7-3.7zm4.6.9h5.3v-1.5H9.3v1.5z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">Link<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color\" style=\"color:#0515bd\"><strong>What Is Parallel Play? Examples, Benefits, and Activity Ideas for Kids<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color\" style=\"color:#767676;font-style:normal;font-weight:400\">When children play side by side in similar activities, they lay the groundwork for future friendships and teamwork.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-advice-table-ofcontents has-background\" style=\"border-radius:5px;background-color:#e9f5ff\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color has-background\" style=\"color:#01075f;background-color:#bdd7ff\">Table of Contents\u2013Jump to Each Section<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-04b7c71e96c9e7cec3d99c974b6e5a74\" style=\"color:#033eaa;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><a href=\"#what-is\" title=\"\">What Is Parallel Play in Early Childhood?<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-20cdee055b2b62811b13bce3ff5baccd\" style=\"color:#033eaa;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><a href=\"#when\" title=\"\">When Does Parallel Play Begin?<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-147bc65a90f8d7273f792f38cf484b81\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><a href=\"#key-benefits\" title=\"\">Key Benefits of Parallel Play<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-cbe8e53f7a90438dba60ab428d673c53\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><a href=\"#other-stages\" title=\"\">Parallel Play vs. Other Stages of Play<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bfd5bd30742996aa8fd806c1b5d1bef5\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><a href=\"#activities\" title=\"\"><strong>10 Parallel Play Activities to <strong>Encourage Side-by-Side Play<\/strong> <\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-4a5d31cae51c2048ea0766098c10c8a1\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><a href=\"#support\" title=\"\">How Adults Can Support Parallel Play<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-royal-depths-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-73fb8407bfb320ae0e3cc50d76413d89\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><a href=\"#faq\" title=\"\">Common Parallel Play FAQs<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:2px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-advice-subheading anchor-link-with-margin has-text-color\" id=\"what-is\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong>&nbsp;What Is Parallel Play in Early Childhood?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">In parallel play, young children play side by side with similar toys or activities, but generally don\u2019t directly interact with one another. Sometimes they watch each other or imitate what they see, but they\u2019re still more focused on their own play.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">As part of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/advice\/the-6-stages-of-play\/66402\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Six Stages of Play in Early Childhood<\/a>, parallel play is an important bridge between solitary and social play. It\u2019s very common in preschool classrooms and playgroups, where kids are learning to be comfortable around others their own age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-royal-depths-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading anchor-link-with-margin has-text-color\" id=\"looks-like\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong>&nbsp;Parallel Play Examples:<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-52703839c94e73a46cc3d296e4015d86\">\n<li>Three children play with a big box of LEGOs. Each is focused on building their own structure: one builds a tower, another builds a house, and the third makes creatures from the bricks. <br><br>They occasionally ask each other for bricks, and may sometimes pause to see what their playmates are building. Ultimately, though, each child plays independently toward their own goals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Four children sit at a table fingerpainting. They occasionally talk to each other while they work, but are primarily only interested in their own paintings. One child watches another as they mix together red and blue to make purple, then quietly copies their behavior, but doesn\u2019t say anything about it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>One child is coloring, using a big bin of crayons. A second child comes in and sees the crayons. She sits down next to the child who is coloring, chooses her own coloring book, and begins to do the same. Neither of the children talks much to each other, each focused on their own activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border aofl-advice-image-video\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-2-1.jpg\" alt=\"Two young children sitting at a table making hand written cards with heart stickers. \" class=\"wp-image-70818\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-2-1.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-2-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-2-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading anchor-link-with-margin aofl-advice-subheading has-text-color\" id=\"when\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong>When Does Parallel Play Begin?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Most children begin participating in parallel play as toddlers, between the ages of 2 to 3. All children develop at their own rate\u2014some start parallel play earlier or later than others.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">To experience parallel play, kids need to spend time with other children their own age. Kids who participate regularly in playgroups, playdates, or preschool activities are likely to start parallel play earlier than children who rarely have a chance to play with peers of similar ages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-advice-subheading anchor-link-with-margin has-text-color\" id=\"key-benefits\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong>Key Benefits of Parallel Play<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Along with the usual benefits of play (like motor skills development), parallel play provides many <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/abcmouse\/how-online-games-help-social-emotional-learning\/57047\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">social-emotional learning<\/a> benefits, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-royal-depths-border-color has-frosted-sky-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3aca0572876fb08c47a4c8888b766423\">\n<li><strong>Social Awareness:<\/strong> When a child engages in side-by-side play, they become more comfortable in the presence of others.&nbsp; They pick up on social cues, become more aware of personal space, and learn to respect the play of others, even if they\u2019re not directly interacting with each other.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Language Development: <\/strong>Simply hearing others talk and interact helps children develop their own verbal skills.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Observation and Imitation:<\/strong> When kids play near others, they may stop to watch from time to time. This can give them new ideas to try, games to play, and even teach problem-solving strategies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Self-Regulation:<\/strong> In parallel play, children often use similar toys or tools and must learn to share space with others. They may need to tune out other actions and noises while they play, sharpening their concentration and focus.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Parallel play lays the groundwork for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/advice\/cooperative-play\/68060\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">cooperative play<\/a>, the ultimate stage of play. The social-emotional skills they build throughout this stage prepares them for taking turns, sharing common goals, following rules, and engaging in group problem-solving as they get older.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-advice-subheading anchor-link-with-margin has-text-color\" id=\"other-stages\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong>Parallel Play vs. Other Stages of Play<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">As part of the 6 Stages of Play, parallel play bridges the gap between earlier individual play and later cooperative play. Here\u2019s how to tell the difference between parallel play and other similar stages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-royal-depths-border-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;background-color:#dee3ff9c;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center aofl-no-padding has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-2f53d05eea42ed219e649fc069e4842b\" style=\"border-radius:15px;color:#01075f\"><strong>Solitary Play vs. Parallel Play<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"886\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-7.jpg\" alt=\"Two young boys playing with blocks on the floor engaging in solitary play. \" class=\"wp-image-70798\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-7.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-7-300x222.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-7-768x567.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"925\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-8.jpg\" alt=\"Two young boys playing with blocks on the floor engaging in parallel play. \" class=\"wp-image-70799\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-8.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-8-300x231.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-8-768x592.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ba66e7e48b2ace52a170f86eb87374c5\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">As part of the 6 Stages of Play, parallel play bridges the gap between earlier individual play and later cooperative play. Here\u2019s how to tell the difference between parallel play and other similar stages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-de285f86254068d82af0a01f2fe2c6e3\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Solitary play can look similar to parallel play, but in parallel play, kids are more aware of their peers. They may watch or imitate others without directly interacting. Both are forms of independent play, but parallel play adds a social element, helping kids learn to share their space with others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-royal-depths-border-color has-background\" style=\"border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;background-color:#dee3ff9c;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center aofl-no-padding has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-43798abe9ebbefd3882de063930e0aa3\" style=\"border-radius:15px;color:#01075f\"><strong>Parallel Play vs. Associative Play<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-9.jpg\" alt=\"Two young boys sitting at a table engaging in parallel play. \" class=\"wp-image-70801\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-9.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-9-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-9-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"795\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-10.jpg\" alt=\"Two young boys sitting at a table engaging in associative play. \" class=\"wp-image-70802\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-10.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-10-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-10-768x509.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-61c63ee475e67e087bd34e6511fc4722\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Associative play is the fifth stage of play, the next step after parallel play. In associative play, kids interact more with their peers\u2014they show off their toys, offer to share, and explain or demonstrate how to do things. They often talk and comment on each other\u2019s activities. However, unlike cooperative play, there\u2019s no shared goal. Each child still focuses on their own tasks while enjoying the social connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-4c96e26d01eb0fe4f4288365d539e4eb\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">The main difference between parallel and associative play is the amount of interaction between children. For example, imagine two children drawing at the same table. In parallel play, each chooses their own crayons and focuses on their own creations, usually working quietly. In associative play, they actively share crayons, tell each other about their drawings, and chat while they work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color has-background\" style=\"border-color:#3a0061;border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;background-color:#dee3ff9c;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center aofl-no-padding has-ivory-lace-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-38d492130ab2702b0482ea2105850618\" style=\"border-radius:15px;color:#3a0061\"><strong>Parallel Play vs. Cooperative Play<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-5.jpg\" alt=\"Two young children playing with blocks  at a table engaging in parallel play. \" class=\"wp-image-70803\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-5.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-5-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1035\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-11.jpg\" alt=\"Two young children playing with blocks  at a table engaging in cooperative play. \" class=\"wp-image-70804\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-11.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-11-300x259.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-11-768x662.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-809fb013f954353c5ba0a6e252e11660\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Cooperative play is the final stage of play, when players share a common goal, follow agreed-upon rules, and share the toys and tools needed for the game or activity. Cooperative play is collaborative, requiring a lot of verbal and nonverbal communication.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-no-padding has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-d56d23f1d167b468bc0857bee8601974\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">In parallel play, kids have their own goals and interact very little. Consider the example where three children are playing with a box of LEGO\u00ae pieces. In parallel play, kids each work with their own pile of bricks and create their own projects, perhaps copying what they see others do but generally focusing on their own goal. In cooperative play, the three children work together to build a giant castle, sharing pieces, making suggestions, and working out the solutions to challenges together as they play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-white-color has-midnight-gradient-background has-text-color has-background has-link-color has-x-large-font-size wp-elements-7a0ca5e3211f34a8fa4db12cc2d11682\" style=\"border-top-left-radius:15px;border-top-right-radius:15px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-top-color:var(--wp--preset--color--periwinkle-mist);border-top-width:2px;border-right-color:var(--wp--preset--color--periwinkle-mist);border-right-width:2px;border-bottom-style:none;border-bottom-width:0px;border-left-color:var(--wp--preset--color--periwinkle-mist);border-left-width:2px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-b0d0054b wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center anchor-link-with-margin has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-645036d8aa5641d0ec7aef2eeba8d829\" id=\"activities\"><strong>10 Parallel Play Activities to <\/strong><br><strong>Encourage Side-by-Side Play<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-background\" style=\"border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:25px;border-bottom-right-radius:25px;border-top-style:none;border-top-width:0px;border-right-color:var(--wp--preset--color--periwinkle-mist);border-right-width:2px;border-bottom-color:var(--wp--preset--color--periwinkle-mist);border-bottom-width:2px;border-left-color:var(--wp--preset--color--periwinkle-mist);border-left-width:2px;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0;background-image:url(&apos;https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/abc_numbers_background_colored.png&apos;);background-position:46% 40%;background-size:cover;\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9167e883 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">\ud83c\udfe0 Indoor Parallel Play Activities \ud83c\udfe0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center aofl-activities-step3 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-4115c1a1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-radius:35px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-bottom:0;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-container-core-column-is-layout-2c106e92 wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);flex-basis:50%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\" style=\"border-radius:25px;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ba0ae288 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1279\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/parallel-play-kids-doing-puzzle.jpg\" alt=\"Children on floor with puzzles and blocks\" class=\"wp-image-70964\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/parallel-play-kids-doing-puzzle.jpg 1279w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/parallel-play-kids-doing-puzzle-300x211.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/parallel-play-kids-doing-puzzle-1200x844.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/parallel-play-kids-doing-puzzle-768x540.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1279px) 100vw, 1279px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9f9ee225c7cb35166d2f9855fef49b92\" style=\"color:#01075f\"><strong><strong>1. Puzzle or Block Time<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-2ec973d9077807d1e35ff76b51ce18a7\" style=\"color:#01075f;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:0\">Provide individual puzzles or sets of blocks with similar difficulty and shapes on a shared rug or table. Let children focus on their own puzzle and building. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bf6803417df41577aee88e65fca003ef\" style=\"color:#01075f;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-left:0\">When each child finishes their puzzle or structure, encourage them to admire the work of the other children. Then, ask them to take their puzzle or structure apart and exchange it with a peer for another set to work with.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:2%\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8d860dff276d2ee586a1cf918039ba48 is-layout-flow wp-container-core-column-is-layout-6e0de1e0 wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"color:#01075f;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-right:0;padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-left:0;flex-basis:50%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\" style=\"border-radius:25px;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ba0ae288 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-4.jpg\" alt=\"A young child's hands putting beads onto a pipe cleaner. \" class=\"wp-image-70810\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover;width:353px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-4.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-4-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-6531b0546d79b64e4461600e031e57fc\" style=\"color:#01075f\"><strong><strong>2. Bead Bracelets<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">Give each child pipe cleaners and a container of age-appropriate beads. Kids can create their own patterns by stringing the beads onto the pipe cleaners, then twisting the ends together to form a bracelet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">When everyone is done with their first bracelet, take time to look at everyone\u2019s creations. Then, let kids make more bracelets, possibly using some of the patterns or techniques they learned from others.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns aofl-activities-step3 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-b7acd7fb wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-radius:35px;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\" style=\"border-radius:25px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-right:0;padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-left:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-0e9a610f wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1279\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-bins-with-dinosaurs-and-shells.jpg\" alt=\"Fun sensory activities. Kids playing in bins with dinosaurs and shells.\" class=\"wp-image-68363\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-bins-with-dinosaurs-and-shells.jpg 1279w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-bins-with-dinosaurs-and-shells-300x141.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-bins-with-dinosaurs-and-shells-1200x563.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/sensory-activities-kids-playing-in-bins-with-dinosaurs-and-shells-768x360.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1279px) 100vw, 1279px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7ad9c27b384d38a7e9d298aec2dc54cc\" style=\"color:#01075f\"><strong><strong>3. Side-by-Side Sensory Bins<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-91b1e1ff9ddb136a2cb1fb54ae820f4a\" style=\"color:#01075f;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\">Provide individual sensory bins, one for each child, each with their own materials. Let each kid play in their own bin for a while, then have them move to new bins so each child gets to try all the different sensory experiences.&nbsp;<br><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:2%\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ee73370e1651f835eaa7f46416069162 is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"color:#01075f;padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\" style=\"border-radius:25px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-right:0;padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-left:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-0e9a610f wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"928\" height=\"448\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/stack-cups-stem-first-grade.jpg\" alt=\"A young child stacking colorful cups on a table. \" class=\"wp-image-40965\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/stack-cups-stem-first-grade.jpg 928w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/stack-cups-stem-first-grade-300x145.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/stack-cups-stem-first-grade-768x371.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 928px) 100vw, 928px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-15d83b23d2c7dcd2a268e661663aa220\" style=\"color:#01075f\"><strong><strong>4. Cup Stacking<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Give each child a set of stacking cups or plastic cups at their own space on the table. Encourage them to make towers, patterns, or designs as they work side-by-side without merging structures. Invite them to check out each others\u2019 creations from time to time to help inspire new ideas.<br><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>5. Grocery Store<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a59b63caf23938444b539a94f0c58d8b\">Set up a grocery store experience with bins or shelves of play foods, plus a toy cash register for checking out. Provide each child their own basket and let them shop on their own, ringing up their own groceries when they\u2019re done. Be sure your set up includes different sections to space kids out, and provide multiples of various toy foods so kids can each complete their \u201cshopping list.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">\ud83c\udf33 Outdoor Parallel Play Activities \ud83c\udf33<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-top aofl-activities-step3 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-b7acd7fb wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-radius:35px;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-container-core-column-is-layout-92d440f1 wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-3.jpg\" alt=\"Three young boys sitting on ride-on toys outside in the yard. \" class=\"wp-image-70807\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-3.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-3-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\" style=\"border-radius:25px;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-bottom:0;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-222103b5 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-97e6447905781b617bd6757eb44c5f23\" style=\"color:#01075f\">6. Ride-On Toys<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8100f1a20497600b4be2d803a7b263cf\" style=\"color:#01075f;padding-right:0;padding-left:0\">Provide bikes, scooters, or trikes in a safe shared area. Let children ride near each other, praising independent skills and gentle observation of peers\u2019 movements. This builds spatial awareness, which is important for safety as kids learn to play together.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:2%\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0a293920e457fb234797d9a355c50e0f is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"color:#01075f;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\" style=\"border-radius:25px;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4681848b wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Chalk-Mural-Summer-Activity.png\" alt=\"A fun chalk mural summer activity for kids.\" class=\"wp-image-58271\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-dfbe91810ea4b520a1796c9990cec858\" style=\"color:#01075f\"><strong><strong>7. Sidewalk Art<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Give each child their own container of sidewalk chalk and a section of pavement (sidewalk squares are ideal for this or individual segments of a driveway). Invite them to draw freely while noticing each other\u2019s work; encourage kids to take inspiration from each other without requiring collaboration.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center aofl-activities-step3 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-b7acd7fb wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-radius:35px;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-container-core-column-is-layout-92d440f1 wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-radius:25px;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-right:0;padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-left:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-18225a6a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Cooperative-play-activities-kids-gardening.jpg\" alt=\"Kids working together in the garden spraying plants with water.\" class=\"wp-image-68205\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Cooperative-play-activities-kids-gardening.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Cooperative-play-activities-kids-gardening-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Cooperative-play-activities-kids-gardening-768x384.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bce8a92c6b08130c5026ecac42a32441\" style=\"color:#01075f\"><strong><strong>8. Side-by-Side Gardening<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-4dd3162d533634e7256aa8168259cfdd\" style=\"color:#01075f;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-left:0\">Provide small plots or pots, seeds, soil, and tools for each child. Let each choose what they\u2019ll plant and decide how to tend their garden. Encourage kids to observe how others dig or water, but don\u2019t require them to collaborate or share their individual spaces.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:2%\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-ab8a4185189f0d623b9bec37b547cc9f is-layout-flow wp-container-core-column-is-layout-f016c79b wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"color:#01075f;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-white-background-color has-background\" style=\"border-radius:25px;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-right:0;padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-left:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-18225a6a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bubble-Party-scaled.png\" alt=\"Fun summer bubble blowing party activity idea for kids.\" class=\"wp-image-58287\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bubble-Party-scaled.png 2560w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bubble-Party-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bubble-Party-1200x800.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bubble-Party-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bubble-Party-1536x1024.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bubble-Party-2048x1365.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-acfadecb05a04bd8db26ea60a645c7ff\" style=\"color:#01075f\"><strong><strong>9. Bubble Play<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Give each child a container of bubbles and a bubble wand. Let them blow bubbles independently, watching their peers to learn new techniques and different ways to create bubbles. You can also turn on a bubble machine and let each child experience them in their own way, popping them, dancing around in them, or just watching them float.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">10. Nature Hunt<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-23e5546acd9e813a99ad302a8b29f86f\" style=\"padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\">Provide each child a basket or bucket, then take a nature walk together. Let each collect their own items (supervise for safety) based on what interests them most. When you return home, have kids sit near others to examine, sort, and play with their items, and hopefully notice other\u2019s collections from time to time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-midnight-blue-color has-periwinkle-mist-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"border-radius:15px;margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">Get more play ideas with our posts on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/activities\/25-play-based-learning-activities-for-preschoolers-and-kindergarteners\/65828\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">25+ Play-Based Learning Activities for Preschoolers and Kindergarteners<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/activities\/cooperative-play-activities\/68154\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Cooperative Play Activities for Your Home or Classroom<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/activities\/sensory-play-ideas\/68335\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">15+ Sensory Play Ideas<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-image u-m-hide\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/abc\/prospect-register\/?src_tag=wp:cta:0015\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"924\" height=\"501\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Mobile.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-89753\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Mobile.png 924w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Mobile-300x163.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Mobile-768x416.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 924px) 100vw, 924px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image u-d-hide aofl-mb-3rem-margin \">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/abc\/prospect-register\/?src_tag=wp:cta:0026\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"393\" height=\"560\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Desktop.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-89754\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Desktop.png 393w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ABCmouse-Learning-Made-Easy-CTA-Desktop-211x300.png 211w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 393px) 100vw, 393px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-advice-subheading anchor-link-with-margin has-text-color\" id=\"support\" style=\"color:#033eaa;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);font-style:normal;font-weight:600\">How Adults Can Support Parallel Play<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Children tend to go through the stages of play naturally as they get older, but parents and caregivers can help provide opportunities and experiences that encourage parallel play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color\" style=\"border-color:#01075F;border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">Playgroups:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">&nbsp;In order to truly experience parallel play as a developmental stage, kids must spend time around other children their own age. The easiest way to support parallel play is to give your child the chance to participate regularly in playgroups, playdates, or preschool activities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-6.jpg\" alt=\"A young group of children at a play group together. \" class=\"wp-image-70808\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-6.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-6-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-6-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Even though it may look like all the kids are playing on their own rather than together, these parallel play activities are providing valuable social learning experiences.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color\" style=\"border-color:#01075F;border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">Multiples of Toys or Tools:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Remember that kids engaging in parallel play are still learning how to share. To play side by side, kids need enough toys or materials for each to have some of their own. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-1.jpg\" alt=\"Three stackable toys sitting side by side. \" class=\"wp-image-70809\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-1.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Provide several sets of crayons and coloring books, separate bins of blocks or building toys, and multiple dolls or other toys for imaginative play.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color\" style=\"border-color:#01075F;border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">Adequate Space:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">&nbsp;Be sure you have plenty of room for kids to play near each other without crowding each other out. Show kids how to move around a space safely while being aware of others. You might say, \u201cIt\u2019s so fun to run around pretending that you\u2019re different zoo animals! Why don\u2019t you move over here while you play, though, so you don\u2019t get in Lila\u2019s space while she puts together that puzzle.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-mb-3rem-margin aofl-desktop-margin has-border-color\" style=\"border-color:#01075F;border-width:1px;border-radius:15px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">Gentle Encouragement:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">When kids first make the transition from solitary to parallel play, they may need a bit of guidance. Parents can model behaviors by sitting down with other children to play nearby, and inviting their own child to join them: \u201cOh, those building blocks look like fun. Do you mind if we use a few to play with? Come on, Parker, let\u2019s sit here and see what we can make.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full has-custom-border\" style=\"margin-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);margin-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-2.jpg\" alt=\"A young mother helping her children engage in play together. \" class=\"wp-image-70812\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-2.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Parallel-Play-2-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.5\">Eventually, children will become comfortable with these behaviors on their own without needing an adult close by.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--70);line-height:1.5\">Parallel play may look simple, but it\u2019s a key step in your child\u2019s social and emotional growth. Try the activities above to support learning and connection, and check out our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/advice\/cooperative-play\/68060\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\"><strong>Cooperative Play<\/strong><\/a> for the next stage in development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-dd225191 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<printables-email-registration style=\"width:fit-content;display:flex;margin:auto\" class=\"wp-block-abcmouse-printables-email-registration\"><\/printables-email-registration>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading aofl-advice-subheading anchor-link-with-margin has-text-color\" id=\"faq\" style=\"color:#033eaa;font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>Common Parallel Play FAQs<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong>What does parallel play look like?<\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-b789a833d20a9e31250783168cf50dc1\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Key characteristics of parallel play include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c2e3d6212d44bd940139a9d95c296bab\">\n<li>Independent but not solitary<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Little or no interaction between children<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minimal sharing or cooperation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Comfortable with other kids playing nearby<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some observation and imitation of others<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong><strong>What age does parallel play begin?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-e4fd62835cc4b480d86ce1d196e4ddee\" style=\"line-height:1.5\">Most children begin parallel play around age 2 to 3, however, all children develop at their own rate. If you\u2019re concerned that your child hasn\u2019t started parallel play, talk to your child\u2019s teacher or pediatrician.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong><strong><strong><strong>What are examples of parallel play?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-b99d0380ebd545be26dd0efa3332fd45\">\n<li>Kids playing in the same sandbox, each digging their own holes or making their own sandcastles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two children exploring a box of musical instruments, each focused on their own instrument and the sound it makes without attempting to coordinate with the other child<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A group of kids using clothes from a dress-up box, each creating their own independent characters and stories<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Several children playing with playdough at the same table, each focused on their own creations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong><strong>Why is parallel play important for children?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-36255133b1c5235e0b8430c0d4fb7557\">\n<li>Parallel play helps children become comfortable around others their own age, developing social skills and self-management.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kids pick up new ideas by watching and imitating others, and learn to share space amicably as they play.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parallel play sharpens focus, as children may need to tune out others to accomplish their own goals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>How is parallel play different from cooperative play?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5b775f70e9a4254f6d948ac43359ae1c\">\n<li>In parallel play, play with similar toys or activities, focusing on their own goals. They may watch or imitate others, but rarely interact as they play.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In cooperative play children work together toward a shared goal, follow agreed-upon rules, and share the toys or materials needed for the activity. It is highly collaborative, involving both verbal and nonverbal communication.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-schema-only=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-aioseo-faq\"><h3 class=\"aioseo-faq-block-question\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>How can parents support parallel play?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3><div class=\"aioseo-faq-block-answer\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3791ea3b26905c05bffb58d4376bd776\">\n<li>Provide opportunities for children to play side-by-side with their peers. Set up playdates, or participate in playgroups or preschool activities.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide multiples of toys as children are still learning how to share.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Give kids plenty of room to play individually. Encourage them to be respectful of others\u2019 space and activities as they play.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-midnight-blue-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bc506ee20a54adbdabf71ab2d7e1e569\" style=\"font-size:12px\"><em><strong><em>Legal disclaimer:<\/em><\/strong><em>&nbsp;Any information, materials, or links to third-party resources are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with and do not sponsor\/endorse these third parties and bear no responsibility for the accuracy of content on any external site. All information provided in this article is current as of September 2025.&nbsp;<\/em>&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover how parallel play supports early social development with easy activity ideas for toddlers and preschoolers to play side by side.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":70970,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[79,14,13,131,177],"class_list":["post-70728","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-advice","tag-first-grade","tag-kindergarten","tag-preschool","tag-toddler","tag-types-of-play"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70728","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=70728"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70728\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":71505,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70728\/revisions\/71505"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/70970"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=70728"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=70728"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=70728"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}