Is it normal for a 14-month-old to avoid playing with peers?

At 14 months, it is developmentally normal for children to engage in 'parallel play' or simply do their own thing when around other kids, rather than interacting directly. They do not yet have the social skills to 'play' in the way adults expect, and they often focus more on observing their surroundings. At this age, a child primarily needs supervision rather than a peer-group social life. Taking them to parks or play areas is sufficient for socialization without any need to force structured playdates.