There Are 6 Types of Childhood Play—How Many Does Your Kid Engage In?

Remember when your zero to two-year-old was perfectly happy sitting in a corner and playing with her feet? Although it might not seem like she’s doing much of anything, your tot is actually busy taking in the world around her (oooh, toes!) and observing. Unoccupied play is an important step that will set her up for future (and more active) playtime. So maybe save those expensive new toys for when she’s a little more interested.

When your kid is so into playing that she doesn’t notice anyone else, you’ve entered the solitary or independent play stage, which usually shows up around years two and three. This type of play varies greatly depending on the child, but might be when your little one sits quietly with a book or plays with his favorite stuffed animal. Solitary play teaches children how to entertain themselves and be self-sufficient (plus gives you a precious moment to yourself).

If Lucy watches other kids run up the slide 16 times but doesn’t join in the fun, don’t worry about her social skills. She’s just entered the onlooker play stage, which often occurs simultaneously to solitary play and is actually a vital first step toward group participation. (Think of it as learning the rules before jumping right in.) Onlooker play typically occurs around ages two and a half to three and a half.

You’ll know your child is in this phase (typically between ages two and a half and three and a half) when he and his pals play with the same toys beside each other but not with each other. This doesn’t mean they’re frenemies. In fact, they’re probably having a ball (although a “my toy!” tantrum is inevitable—sorry). Here’s what he’s learning: How to take turns, pay attention to others and mimic behavior that seems useful or fun.

This stage looks similar to parallel play but is characterized by your child’s interaction with others without coordination (and typically occurs between ages three and four). Think: two kids sitting side by side building a Lego city…but working on their own individual buildings. This is a great opportunity to introduce valuable skills like teamwork and communication. (“See how your tower fits so nicely on top of Tyler’s tower?”)

When kids are finally ready to play together (typically around the time they start school at age four or five), they've reached the final stage of Parten’s theory. This is when team sports or group performances become a lot more fun (for kids playing and for parents watching). Now they’re ready to apply the skills they’ve learned (like socializing, communicating, problem solving and interacting) to other parts of their life and become fully functioning mini adults (well, almost).