Types of Play
Play is crucial for children as it fosters imagination, cognitive growth, and emotional well-being. It enhances literacy and language skills through storytelling and communication. Additionally, play promotes independence, physical fitness, and social skills like sharing and turn-taking. Through play, children learn about the world, build friendships, and develop essential life skills.

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Types of Play
UNOCCUPIED PLAY
(0-3 MONTHS)
Babies or young children exploring materials around them without any sort of organization
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It allows newborns to identify their legs, hands, arms, and feet
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This is their first attempt to learn about their world
INDEPENDENT/SOLITARY PLAY
(BIRTH TO 2 YEARS)
When a child starts to play alone
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Looking at colorful pictures in board books
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Sorting and stacking cups
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Playing under the play gym
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Playing with blocks
ONLOOKER PLAY
(2 YEARS)
Child begins to watch and observe other children play but does not play with them
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Watching other children play at a distance
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Children suggest possible solutions to other children but not actively joining in on their play
PARALLEL PLAY
( 2+ YEARS)
When a child plays alongside or near other children but does not play with them
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The child playing in the same area but not necessarily with the same toy
ASSOCIATIVE PLAY
(3-4 YEARS)
When a child starts to interact with others during play
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The child will play on the playground equipment but all doing different activities like climbing, swinging or sliding
COOPERATIVE PLAY
When children play together with shared goals
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Playing store
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Playing restaurant
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Putting on a stage show
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Playing going to the doctor