What behavior reflects a child's engagement in parallel play?

Parallel play is a form of play observed in young children, particularly between the ages of 2 to 3 years, where children play alongside each other but do not directly interact or influence each other's play. In this context, the behavior described by building blocks side by side but not sharing embodies the essence of parallel play. The children may be aware of each other's actions and may even mimic or observe each other, yet they are primarily focused on their activities, rather than engaging in cooperative play or interaction.

While playing alone in the same area without interaction might seem similar, it does not involve the proximity to another child that is characteristic of parallel play. Alternating turns in a game represents a more interactive play style, indicating a shift toward cooperative play, which occurs as children grow older. Cooperative storytelling also signifies active interaction and collaboration, moving away from parallel play. Therefore, the behavior of building blocks side by side, without sharing or interaction, is the most accurate reflection of parallel play.