When Playing With Others Doesn't Come Easily
Some children are perfectly content playing by themselves. Others want to join in but aren't quite sure how.
You may see your child standing nearby while other children play, but not joining them. They might take a toy without asking, find it hard to share or get upset when another child doesn't play the way they expected.
Busy places can be difficult too. A playground, birthday party or classroom full of children may leave them overwhelmed. Sometimes, they may keep doing the same thing with a toy or game, even when another child is trying to change it.
If this is happening often, you may wonder why your child finds something that seems so natural to other children so difficult. Social situations involve a lot of things to notice and respond to, and some children need more help figuring them out.
What Parents May Notice
You may notice your child:
Usually chooses to play alone
Finds sharing or taking turns difficult
Doesn't always notice how another child is reacting
Becomes uncomfortable or upset in busy groups
Plays with the same toy or in the same way repeatedly
Gets frustrated when another child changes the game
Why This Can Be Difficult
There isn't always one obvious reason.
Your child may want to play with others but struggle to know how to enter a game or keep it going. They may miss a facial expression or not realise that another child has become bored or wants to do something else.
For some children, these things become easier when they have someone showing them what to do and giving them plenty of chances to practise.
What Can Help
You don't need to start with a big group. Playing with one familiar child can be a much easier place to begin.
At home, you can practise things that come up during play — asking for a toy, waiting for a turn, inviting someone to play or handling a “no.” Keep these moments relaxed. If your child gets it wrong, show them another way rather than turning it into a correction every time.
And notice the little wins. If they wait for a turn, ask another child to play or accept a change to the game, let them know you've noticed.
How We Can Help
We spend time understanding how your child manages play and social situations. This includes looking at what they find easy, what tends to go wrong and what kind of support might make things easier.
The goal is to give your child practical ways to join in, take part and feel more comfortable around other children.