Parallel Play
Sharing physical space while engaging in separate activities. Borrowed from toddler development, reclaimed as adult autistic intimacy.
AutismSocial CommunicationIdentity
Layer 3: Recognised
Clinical Recognition
Term borrowed from developmental psychology (toddler play stage). Not studied as adult autistic social preference.
Community Validation
High recognition in autistic communities. Valued as peak intimacy—connection without energy drain of direct interaction.
Published
17 December 2025 by Team Heumans
Parallel Play is when you're in the same space with someone, each doing your own thing—reading, gaming, crafting, working—without needing to interact. You're together but not "on" for each other. Presence without performance.
For many neurodivergent people, this is peak intimacy. You get connection and co-regulation from shared space without the energy cost of conversation, eye contact, or social reciprocity. It's "I want you here, I just don't want to talk."