What defines onlooker play?

Onlooker play is characterized by a child observing other children engage in activities without directly participating themselves. This type of play reflects a child's interest in social interactions and the dynamics of play, allowing them to learn from what they see while remaining a bystander. Children in onlooker play are typically curious and may offer comments or encouragement, but they do not join in the play themselves.

In contrast, other forms of play such as parallel play involve children playing alongside one another but not interacting, while cooperative play includes children actively working together. The other options do not accurately capture the essence of onlooker play, as they describe different levels of engagement in social play or solitary activities rather than passive observation. Thus, the defining aspect of onlooker play is the act of watching others without direct involvement, making it distinct in the spectrum of play types.