Types of Play

Associative Play

Around 3 to 4 years old. Children become interested in other children more than toys. Socialization starts to happen. "Loosely Organized Play." This play helps children to learn the do's and don'ts of getting along with others. Helps teach sharing, language development, problem-solving skills and cooperation. Similar goals among children. No set rules. Want to play with same types of toys and may trade. No formal Organization.

Social Play

Around the age of 3 They begin to socialize with other children at this age. Interacting with other children they learn social rules like give and take. Sharing of toys and ideas happen now. Moral reasoning helps them to develop their values during play. Children need to experience a variety of social situations to help them prepare for adult life.

Cooperative Play

Begins in late preschool period. Play is organized by group goals. At least one child leads. Other children are in or out. Play moves from a self-centered world to understanding group goals, contracts and rules. Children begin to play games that have rules. Follow the Leader, Simon Says, and team sports fall in this type of play. This type of play teaches children that life has rules and everyone must follow.

Unoccupied Play

Birth to about 3 months. Make random movements. No clear purpose. Initial form of play.

Fantasy Play

Children try new roles, situations, languages and emotions. Children learn to think and create beyond their world. Assume adult roles. They learn to think in abstract methods. They stretch their imaginations, use new words, numbers, concepts, and dream.

Solitary Play

From 3 months to 18 months. Spends most of their time playing on their own. Busy playing and many times does not notice other children playing near or around them. Explores the world by watching, grabbing, rattling objects. Children have limited social, cognitive, and physical skills. It is important that everyone to have time to play by themselves

Parallel Play

18 months to 2 years old Playing alongside, but no interactions. Provides opportunities for role-playing, such as dressing up and pretending. Begins to understand "mine." Begins to show need to be with other children of the same age. Found in toddlers, but can happen in any age group.

Constructive Play

Starts in infancy and becomes more complex. Putting things in their mouth, feeling and tasting is included in this type of play. As children grow, building with blocks, drawing and building objects would be this type of play. Constructive play allows for children to explore and discover. Children gain confidence when they create ideas and work with numbers.

Expressive Play

This play helps children to express their feelings. You can use paints, crayons, colored pencils and paper. You can use different textures like sponges, clay and water. Beanbags, instruments, pounding benches are also items used for expressive play. You can take an active role by using material alongside you child.

Motor-Physical Play

This type of play includes running and jumping. Exercise and muscle development happens during this play. Taking turns, winning, and losing all are important social skills that children learn.

Onlooker Play

Toddler Years (2 & 3 year olds) Children watch other children play. They are learning how to relate to others and learning language. Children will ask other children questions, but no attempt to play with others. Usually starts during toddler years, but can take place at any age.