In a family and consumer science observation, what type of play is exhibited when children use different tools in a sandbox?

The correct answer is parallel play. In parallel play, children play alongside each other using similar materials or tools but do not actively engage with one another in a coordinated or cooperative manner. In the context of a sandbox, when multiple children are using different tools independently to create their own structures or dig, they may be observing each other but are primarily focused on their individual activities rather than interacting or collaborating on a single shared goal.

This type of play is common among toddlers and preschoolers, typically occurring before associative or cooperative play. In associative play, children might start to interact more by sharing tools or commenting on each other’s work, while in cooperative play, they would be working together toward a common goal, which goes beyond merely using tools next to each other.

Parallel play lays the foundation for later forms of social play, helping children develop social skills while fostering creativity and individual expression.