SOCIAL PLAY

 

The Development of Social Play:

Solitary: A child will initially play alone. They explore and learn with the objects they use but do not attempt to play with others. As they become older they may still have periods when they need to play alone but it is important to not become stuck at this stage.

 

Parallel Play

Children start to play alongside each other, for example standing around the water tray. They watch each other and may attempt occasional interactions. Towards the end of this stage they may begin to co-operate with other children by sharing or passing toys and they may take turns with at least one other child.

 

Co-operative Play

Children enjoy the friendship of other children and want to interact with them. They learn to play together, share and take turns in small groups. Disagreements will sometimes still occur. Later the children can take part in activities without close adult supervision. Their play routines become more imaginative and they should be able to take part in meaningful conversations.

 

Moving from Solitary to Parallel Play:

• Join the child in an activity that interests them. Play alongside them.
• Copy their play with an identical set of toys.
• Try to extend your interactions with the child by encouraging them to accept toys from you, for example passing more stacking cups if they are playing with this toy.
• Praise any attempts they make to interact or copy you.

 

Moving from Parallel Play to Co-operative Play:

• Become more interactive by developing two way interactive games, for example rolling a car or ball to them and asking for it back.
• Group games with a parachute can be fun and motivating and encourage shared enjoyment.
• Introduce simple turn taking games such as skittles, pop up pirate.

 

Some information and ideas based on Elklan Language Builders (2009)