parallel play

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of parallel play¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

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

From Salon

“It’s incredible parallel play. We can both exist in our own world at our own level and have fun together.”

From Seattle Times

We’re all engaged in an adult form of parallel play, quietly feeding off of each other’s energy, alone but not alone.

From New York Times

“It’s like with kids, what you call parallel play,” she says.

From Washington Post

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