explain briefly four stages of a play
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As children mature, their play skills move through four specific stages of play: solitary play, parallel play, symbolic play, and cooperative play.
Understanding Four Stages of Play - Solitary play
Solitary Play With Infants and Toddlers
The first stage of play is solitary play, which typically lasts from just a few months old until about 18 months old. During this stage, children tend to play alone or possibly with adults, with limited interest in interacting with same-age peers. They generally prefer basic cause-and-effect toys that meet their sensory needs, including those that spin, light up, and make sounds, and toys they can easily mouth. Babies and toddlers also enjoy playing games like peek-a-boo and tickles because of the cause-and-effect nature. Toys that are appropriate for this stage would include simple musical instruments (like drums, shakers, and tambourines), bead mazes, and activity boxes.
Understanding Four Stages of Play - Parallel play
Parallel Play - Side-by-Side
The next stage of play is parallel play, during which children are able to play alongside one another and may even be playing with the same toy or game, but show minimal ability to appropriately interact with one another. This generally occurs between 18 to 36 months old. At this time, basic reciprocal play skills may develop as well. This is when children begin to understand that simple play, such as passing a ball or car back and forth, can be enjoyed by multiple people simultaneously. Toys that are appropriate for this stage would include shape sorters, blocks, wooden puzzles, pull toys, and many of the fine motor activities for toddlers.
Understanding Four Stages of Play - Symbolic play
Symbolic Play - Preschool Play Pretend!
Symbolic play involves the use of inanimate objects to represent real-life activities, such as pretending that a basket of balls is really a basket of apples picked off imaginary trees or caring for a stuffed plush dog by giving it imaginary water and food. This stage of play occurs around three to four years old. Toys that are appropriate for this stage include baby dolls, stuffed animals, doctor kits, and dress-up clothes.
Understanding Four Stages of Play - Cooperative play
Cooperative Play - More Complex Fun
Cooperative Play is the most advanced stage of play. This is when children develop complex storylines to guide their play, occurring beyond four years of age. At this stage, play ideas may include playing house with baby dolls, building a fort of blocks filled with action figures, or going grocery shopping and cooking meals in a play kitchen. Children at this stage are also able to play basic board games as they learn the rules of sharing and turn-taking. Toys that are appropriate for this stage include play food and dishes, fashion dolls, and action figures.
Stages of Play - Simple Guide for Parents to Understanding
Children of all ages use play to understand and imitate the world around them. Play allows children to explore, discover, and create freely within a natural learning environment. Providing children with a variety of developmentally-appropriate toys allows them to use their imaginations limitlessly.