What is the term for when children play with one another in an interactive manner?

Cooperative play is characterized by children interacting with one another in a meaningful way, often working together towards a common goal or engaging in shared activities. During this type of play, children develop social skills, learn to negotiate, and practice teamwork as they collaborate and make decisions collectively. This interaction is essential for emotional and social development, helping children learn how to communicate, share, and resolve conflicts.

In contrast, solitary play occurs when a child plays alone, focusing solely on their own activities without engaging with others. Parallel play involves children playing side by side, often using similar materials but not interacting with each other in a meaningful way. Competitive play is centered on rivalry and winning, which can lead to conflict rather than cooperation. Therefore, the most accurate term for children who engage with one another interactively is cooperative play.