Parten (1994) proposed six social stages of play in children and adolescents. These stages are exploration, individuation, norm formation, achievement, autonomy, and closure.
Exploration is the first stage of play and is when children are exploring their surroundings and experimenting with new behaviors. They are trying to learn about their world and how it works. During this stage, children are also trying to find their identity and learn how to behave in social situations.
Individuation is the second stage of play and is when children are developing their own unique personalities. They are testing out new behaviors and exploring their limits. During this stage, they are also learning how to interact with other people.
Norm formation is the third stage of play and is when children start to develop social norms. They are learning how to behave in accordance with the rules of their community and society. During this stage, they are also learning how to cooperate and share.
Achievement is the fourth stage of play and is when children start to achieve their goals. They are learning how to get along with other people and achieve their goals. During this stage, children are also learning how to play for fun.
Autonomy is the fifth stage of play and is when children start to take control of their own lives. They are learning how to make decisions and solve problems. During this stage, they are also learning how to develop their own skills.
Closure is the sixth and final stage of play and is when children learn how to let go of their experiences. They are learning how to resolve conflicts and move on. During this stage, they are also learning how to create lasting memories.
