Parten's Stages of Play

Vocabulary flashcards summarizing each of Parten's six stages of play and the overall framework.

Parten's Stages of Play

A developmental framework outlining six progressive types of social play from infancy through early childhood.

Unoccupied Play

The earliest stage (birth–3 months) where infants make random movements and observe their surroundings, absorbing sensory information.

Solitary Play

Independent play (3 months–2½ years) in which a child entertains themselves, explores toys alone, and begins forming preferences.

Onlooker Play

Observational play (2½–3½ years) where a child watches others play to learn rules, social cues, and build empathy without joining in.

Parallel Play

Side-by-side play (3½–4 years) where children play near each other, often imitating actions, yet do not interact directly.

Associative Play

Interactive play (4–4½ years) marked by sharing materials and conversation; children play together but without a common goal or role structure.

Cooperative Play

Collaborative play (4½ years and up) in which children work toward a shared goal, accept roles, follow rules, and practice communication and compromise.