Social Patterns
The child will watch other children play-does not become actively involved.
Onlooker
Play teaches children the type of behavior that is acceptable.
Goal is to get along with other people and to learn to cooperate and share.
Social Development
Playing and interacting with others and/or objects. Activities may include looking at a book, puzzles, building with blocks, coloring or painting.
Active Play
This play requires organization. The child is part of a group activity.
Roles may be assigned. There are usually leaders and followers in this play.
Cooperative Play
Play teaches children how things work. They learn to reason, solve problems and practice new mental skills.
Intellectual Development
The child is involved in imaginative situations. The child can express him/her self in a different role.
Dramatic Play
The children play beside each other, but there is no actual interaction. The toys may be similar.
Parallel Play
Children learn how to handle their feelings and fears through play.
Emotional Development
A child playing in sand, mud, water, play dough, saw dust, corn meal, ooblick or any type of textural media.
Sensory Motor Play
The child plays alone. He/she is involved in a personal activity. They are entertaining themselves.
Solitary Play
Play in this are will develop small and large muscles and increase speed, strength and coordination.
Physical Development
Play where a child learns and practices a new skill. By repeating the activity, the child will master the activity. Examples: riding a bike, skating, puzzles, games, etc.
Skill Mastery Play