Playdates offer a great opportunity for kids to have some fun and learn some social skills and the parents to interact with each other as well. Whether you are a stay at home mum, working mum or a pre-school coordinator, there are some things you ought to do or not do when hosting a playdate.
1. Send Playdate Cards To The Parents
Very often, your child will talk about a new friend they have made for hours on end and all the activities they do together. You may want to meet the friend or help your child create lasting friendships with the new friend. How about you send their parents a playdate card invite? Make it simple and leave your contact information on the card.
2. Take Stock Of All The Toys
Have all they toys around and make sure all the parts are counted for and the dirty ones are clean. Other parents will be bringing their children over and your child’s toys are a representation of you. Clean everything including baby dolls, cars, trains, blocks and lego. Wipe them with a warm cloth and spot clean dolls with a wet clothe and mild detergent.
3. Let The Children Solve Their Own Tussels
The idea of a playdate is to bring children together to socially interact with other kids their age. Meddling goes against that by pitting the against each other. Instead, let them learn to negotiate with other people. Some of the issues that may arise are differences over which game to play or which game to start with.
4. Go Over Playdate Rules
Rules may also be inclusive of what is acceptable or not acceptable in your house. These may include being nice to visitors, basic courtesy and etiquette skills like saying thanks, please, welcome and goodbye.
5.Snacks
Choose allergy free snacks like fruits; oranges, sliced grapes, and cut up melons to offer the children. Alternatively, always have the parents tell you of their children’s allergies to avoid any incidents.
6. Baby Proof The Play Area
At times, the children’s younger siblings might want to be involved in the playdate! When such a situation arises, baby proof all the areas that the children might come into contact with. Put away precious items like vases, equipments and gadgets out of their reach.
7. Spend Some Time With The Parent You Invite Over
Inasmuch as a playdate is designated for kids to enjoy their own company, there’s no reason as to why parents should not have fun as well. Have some coffee, snacks, get to know one another and schedule something fun for grown ups as well.
8. Have Clear Start And End Times
This helps the parents to know when to pick up their children. The children will also anticipate for their after play snacks.
9. Have The Children Arrange The Toys.
Teach them how adequately and nicely store the toys away to avoid clutter while teaching them accountability.
With these tips, do you feel confident in hosting a playdate or are you unsure of some items? Let us know in the comments.
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