- Step 1: Analyze subject-verb agreement. "Children" is plural, requiring a plural verb ("play").
- Step 2: Check verb form. Simple present tense ("play") is appropriate for a general statement.
- Step 3: Evaluate options. Option (1) uses "plays," incorrect for plural subject. Option (2) uses "play," correct. Option (3) uses "is playing," incorrect for plural subject. Option (4) uses "plays" and "parks," incorrect verb and plural noun.
- Step 4: Verify. "The children play" is standard English for plural subjects in simple present tense.
- Step 5: Conclusion. Option (2) is correct.