2yr 5mth old DS doesn't play with other children

[Sutherlandgirl]

My DS is very talkative and bright (I know everyone says that!), and generally sociable with adults, but doesn't play with other children. He doesn't ignore them exactly, but just doesn't join in with their games, as though he doesn't "get it", and always ends up wandering off on his own to play, or gravitates towards the grown ups.

He has been looked after by family when I am at work so doesn't see that many children, other than weekly playgroup and meet ups with NCT friends.

I don't think his behaviour is worrying in itself (he isn't aggressive or possessive at all unlike sime of the other kids we see!) but he is starting pre school soon and I don't want him to get left out!

Anyone with a similar story, or advice? Thanks!

This sounds normal, especially for a boy. My 2.5yo DD does play with her friends at nursery, but she is much more sociable and savvy than DS, who never would have at that age. He was just as you describe. He's now 7 and has gradually made friends his own age, though he's still not the life and soul of the party, but he's happy with that.

I wouldn't worry about preschool - they will be used to all different kinds of children and their different needs and they will help ease him in gently.

at this age dc's are like little atoms, they will just bounce round the room doing their own thing and may connect with other dcs or just do their own thing. Usually dcs might start to form 'proper' friendships or pick a 'special' friend in reception class or later in nursery. our dc's nursery staff assured us of this, so don't worry, he seems like he is contect to amuse himself!

Children of that age don't tend to play with other children. They'll play alongside other children but don't really interact with them except to grab a toy or something!

I think its fine.

Thanks for that! I'm hoping pre school will help.....JoyceDivision I love the nickname and also the atom analogy!

My understanding was that many don't play 'with' others till the age of about 3.

My 2.8 y.o. will play 'with' one other child if closely mediated/orchestrated by DH or me - but only to the extent of us saying, "You have a turn blowing the bubbles, now it's X's turn. Your turn is next."

He has no understanding of what others are playing (other than to realise they're in his way), although he's interested and (for example) will repeatedly ask why another child is crying.

His actual interactions with other children have been limited to, "Get rid of that girl! Go somewhere else! Not here! Get rid of her!" He likes his personal space and hates it when other people encroach on it.

My DS did not "get it" until he was nearly 4 - don't worry.

That reminds me: according to MIL by the age of 4, DH wouldn't talk to any other children (or adults) - he'd just grunt (though he could talk). He's perfectly well-adjusted now and does a job involving people skills. :)