As children grow, play is more than just fun. It is how they learn, connect, and build the skills they will use throughout life. Each stage lays the foundation for the next, helping kids develop socially, emotionally, and cognitively at their own pace.

I’m Zacharia, an occupational therapy student at Joy & Laughter Developmental Therapy. In this article, I’ll walk you through the six stages of play, what they look like, and how they support your child’s development.

Stage 1: Unoccupied Play

Unoccupied play happens in infancy, usually from birth to about three months. At this stage, children are not “playing” in the traditional sense, but they are beginning to explore their world.

Their body movements are often uncoordinated, erratic, and involuntary. They may kick, wave their arms, or stare at objects like a ceiling fan. These early movements provide sensory experiences, help infants become familiar with different textures and sensations, and lay the groundwork for motor development and body awareness.

Stage 2: Solitary Play

In solitary play, children interact with their environment on their own. They enjoy discovering toys by themselves and manipulating objects without involving others.

This stage is essential for developing motor skills, cause-and-effect thinking, and awareness of the environment. Examples include exploring a baby gym, shaking a rattle to hear its sound, or testing out toys that make different noises.

Solitary play helps children gain independence and confidence while they experiment and learn.

Stage 3: Spectator Play

Spectator play is when children begin to watch others without joining in. They may sit and observe another child playing across the room, studying what the other child is doing.

Through observation, children begin to develop interests, learn how others use toys, and notice both positive and negative reactions. They may also observe adverse behaviors and learn from those responses as well. Watching and learning from others at this stage sets the stage for more interactive play.

Stage 4: Parallel Play

Parallel play is when children play side by side with others, but not directly with them. They are aware of one another and may notice each other’s actions, but they continue to focus on their own activities.

This stage promotes independence, confidence, and body awareness. It also helps children engage in their interests without constant parent intervention. For example, two children may both use blocks in the same space, each building their own tower, without combining their play.

Stage 5: Associative Play

Associative play is when children begin to interact with others, but without a shared goal. They may use the same equipment or toys, such as swings and slides in the gym, and start to practice turn-taking.

Even though they are not working together on the same task, they are engaging with one another and building the foundation for social interaction. Associative play helps children connect over shared interests, try out group activities, and learn the beginnings of cooperation.

Stage 6: Cooperative Play

Cooperative play is the stage most adults recognize as “real play.” At this point, children interact directly, create shared goals, and work together.

Examples include building a tower with blocks, creating a marble run, or making a fort in the foam pit. Children may also role play, join team games, or act out make-believe scenarios.

This stage is important for developing emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and compromise. Cooperative play helps children move from independent interests to collaborative group tasks.

Reach Out to JLD Therapy

Every child moves through the stages of play at their own pace. If you have concerns about your child’s development or notice they are not interacting at a level you expect, Joy & Laughter Developmental Therapy can help.

Call us today at (408) 337-2727 or reach out online to schedule a consultation and learn how our pediatric therapists can support your child’s growth through play.