Children play side by side during parallel play, which is more than simply a game; it's an important part of their social development. Understanding and promoting parallel play in daycare settings can have a big impact on kids' social skills and general development. Let's explore the benefits of parallel play and how daycare centers may foster it. 

What is parallel play?

When two or more kids play side by side without interacting, it's called parallel play. Kids might watch what other kids do on the playground and try to imitate them. Children who lack social interaction skills and body awareness frequently engage in parallel play.

Why is Parallel Play So Important?

Parallel play is important for several reasons:

• Developing Independence: Parallel play allows children to explore their interests and play independently, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-confidence.
• Observational Learning: While engaging in parallel play, children observe and mimic the behaviors of their peers, learning new skills and ideas.
• Social Skills Development: Even though children are not directly interacting, parallel play helps them understand social norms, such as taking turns and respecting personal space.
• Language Development: Children may start to use language during parallel play, either by talking to themselves or imitating words they hear from others.
• Building Confidence: As children engage in parallel play, they gain confidence in their abilities and become more comfortable in social settings.
• Respecting Boundaries: Through parallel play, children learn about personal space and respecting the activities of others, laying the foundation for future social interactions.

Examples of Parallel Play:

• Two children playing with blocks next to each other but not interacting.
• Children swinging on swings beside each other without talking or interacting.
• Kids playing in a sandbox, each building their sandcastle without collaborating.
• Toddlers sitting near each other, both engaged in playing with toy cars but not sharing or communicating.
• Children sit at a table, each coloring their picture without interacting with the others.
• Kids play with dolls or action figures beside each other, each creating their storyline without involving the other children.

How to Encourage Parallel Play?

Provide a large selection of engaging toys and materials so kids can select what they want to play with.

And furnish cozy areas! Create a welcoming and secure atmosphere that inspires kids to explore and play on their own.

Never be afraid to participate. At times, caregivers or teachers might participate in the parallel play to demonstrate how to share and take turns while maintaining personal space. 

Mildred Parten’s Social Behavior Theory and Stages of Play:

Sociologist and researcher Mildred Parten created a theory about the phases of play that kids go through. Her hypothesis, presented in "Social Participation among Preschool Children," published in 1932, proposes six play stages that children move through as they mature and acquire social abilities. These phases consist of:

• Unoccupied Play: This stage occurs from birth to about three months when children seem to be making random movements with no clear purpose.
• Solitary Play: From birth to around two years old, children engage in solitary play, where they play alone and are focused on their activities without regard for others.
• Onlooker Play: This stage begins around two years old when children start to watch others play but do not actively join in.
• Parallel Play: Starting around two or three years old, children engage in parallel play, where they play alongside others but do not interact directly.
• Associative Play: Around three to four years old, children start to interact with others while playing, though their play is not yet fully coordinated or organized.
• Cooperative Play: Typically starting around four years old, children engage in cooperative play, where they play together in organized and coordinated activities, often with specific roles and rules.

Benefits of parallel play:

Parallel play offers several benefits to children's development:

• Language Development: Even though children are not directly interacting, parallel play provides opportunities for them to listen to and learn from each other, expanding their vocabulary and language skills.
• Social Skills: Parallel play helps children develop basic social skills such as sharing space, taking turns, and respecting others' activities, laying the foundation for more complex social interactions later on.
• Independence: Through parallel play, children learn to entertain themselves and make choices about how to play without constant interaction from adults or peers, fostering independence.
• Observational Learning: Children observe how others play and may imitate behaviors or actions they find interesting or successful, leading to new learning experiences.
• Emotional Development: Parallel play provides a safe space for children to express and regulate their emotions, such as joy, frustration, or curiosity, helping them develop emotional intelligence.
• Conflict Resolution: While engaging in parallel play, children may encounter minor conflicts or disagreements, providing opportunities to learn how to resolve conflicts peacefully and negotiate with others.
• Cognitive Development: Parallel play stimulates cognitive development by encouraging children to use their imagination, problem-solving skills, and creativity in their play activities.

How to Help Children With Parallel Play?

Here are some ways to support and encourage parallel play in children:

• Self-Confidence: As children explore and engage in parallel play, they gain confidence in their abilities and become more comfortable in social settings, laying the foundation for positive self-esteem.
• Provide a Variety of Toys: Offer a wide range of toys and materials that cater to different interests and abilities, allowing children to choose activities that engage them.
• Create a Safe and Comfortable Environment: Design a space that is inviting and conducive to play, with areas for both quiet and active play, and ensure that toys and materials are easily accessible.
• Model Play Behavior: Adults can join in parallel play at times, demonstrating sharing, turn-taking, and other social skills that children can observe and imitate.
• Encourage Parallel Play Opportunities: Arrange playdates or group activities where children can engage in parallel play with peers, providing opportunities for social interaction in a safe and supportive environment.
• Offer Guidance and Support: While children are engaged in parallel play, adults can offer gentle guidance and support, such as commenting on their activities or asking open-ended questions to encourage communication.
• Respect Their Independence: Allow children the freedom to explore and play independently, stepping in only when needed to ensure their safety or to facilitate positive social interactions.
• Be Patient and Understanding: Remember that parallel play is a normal stage of development, and each child progresses at their own pace. Be patient and understanding, allowing children the time and space they need to learn and grow through play.