parallel play

"Parallel play" is a crucial stage in early childhood development where children play near each other without direct interaction.

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Definition

(technical, academic)A stage where young children play side by side with similar toys or activities but do not interact directly.

During parallel play, toddlers may build blocks next to each other without trying to combine their structures.
Parallel play is often observed in children between 18 months and two years old.

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "parallel play":