The nurse is watching toddlers at play. Which normal behavior would the nurse observe?

A. Toddlers engage in parallel play: Between ages 1 and 3, toddlers typically play alongside peers without direct interaction, known as parallel play. This allows them to observe and imitate social behaviors while developing motor skills and independence, which is developmentally appropriate for this age group. B. Toddlers engage in cooperative play: Cooperative play, where children actively interact, share, and collaborate toward a common goal, usually emerges in the preschool years around ages 3–4. Toddlers generally lack the cognitive and social maturity for sustained cooperative play. C. Toddlers do not engage in play outside the home: This statement is inaccurate, as toddlers naturally explore environments both inside and outside the home. Outdoor play provides sensory stimulation, gross motor development, and opportunities for social observation. D. Toddlers engage in solitary play: Solitary play is more characteristic of infants and very young toddlers under 12 months. By 1–2 years, most toddlers begin engaging in parallel play rather than playing entirely alone.