parallel play

American  

noun

1. a form of play in which a very young child plays independently in the presence of another child or other children.

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Etymology

Origin of parallel play

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

"It's a bit like parallel play," she says.

From BBC • May 4, 2025

And then parallel play when they're playing alongside someone else.

From Salon • Oct. 6, 2023

The term parallel play usually refers to young children playing independently alongside one another, but it can also be a valuable way to think about adult relationships.

From New York Times • Sep. 24, 2021

The project was less a conversation than an extended form of parallel play.

From The New Yorker • Jun. 9, 2014

Later, as they grow and mature, there begins what we call parallel play.

From Herein is Love A Study of the Biblical Doctrine of Love in Its Bearing on Personality, Parenthood, Teaching, and All Other Human Relationships. by Howe, Reuel L.