What is the age range where cooperative play typically occurs?

Cooperative play typically occurs in children ages 5 years to adolescence. At this stage of development, children start to engage more deeply with one another in play activities that require teamwork, collaboration, and shared goals. They begin to understand social dynamics, take on roles, and navigate group interactions, which are key components of cooperative play. This form of play is characterized by children working together to achieve a common purpose, such as building a fort, participating in a game with rules, or collaborating on creative tasks.

In contrast, younger children, such as those in the earlier age ranges, exhibit more parallel play or associative play, where they play alongside each other rather than directly with one another. This developmental progression highlights the increasing ability to engage in complex social interactions and the emotional maturity needed to participate effectively in cooperative play.