Play dates are a fantastic way for kids to socialise, build friendships, and develop essential social skills. But organising play dates can feel overwhelming without the right plan. From choosing a convenient time to keeping activities fun and safe, there are a few things to consider. Written by Terence Mentor, AfroDaddy .
I am a very lucky man. There are many reasons for this claim, and I don’t want to seem like I’m gloating so I’m going to focus on one tiny example. I don’t have to arrange play dates. My wife does it all!
This is mostly due to the fact that most of her friends have kids, and pretty much none of the degenerates I choose to associate myself with do, so it’s just easier for her. In case you don’t know what a play date is, here a quick summary:
Two sets of parents who are too tired to constantly entertain their child decide that if their children spend some time together, they will entertain each other while the parents get to sit and have a normal adult conversation about the zeitgeist of the day. In an ideal world, there is wine somewhere in this equation too.
“There has to be the delicate back and forth most parents are now so used to they don’t even notice they are doing it.”
Obviously, we don’t live in an ideal world though, so this is what actually happens:
Because everyone’s schedules are so busy, the parents struggle to find a time that works for both sides and even when they do, they then have to decide where to have the play date.
Should they meet at a park? If yes, which one? They then have to work out which park is equidistant from both homes, but that is also liked by both kids.
Maybe they decide to meet at one of the homes, but then the question becomes “Which one?”. This is tricky social interaction where you don’t want to seem selfish, but at the same time don’t want to be the parent who has two crazy kiddies causing havoc in his home for the afternoon. There has to be the delicate back and forth most parents are now so used to they don’t even notice they are doing it:
“Oh, I’m sure you don’t want to get the kid in the car and do all that travelling.”
“No worries, we’ll be on the road anyway.”
“Ah. Also, I know your boy is a little scared of our big dogs.”
“He’s not that scared anymore. Besides, I think we have a flea problem at our place.”
“Well, we have lice.”
“WELL OUR PLACE IS HAUNTED, OKAY?”
“…will you bring the wine, then?”
“Sure!”
And then, when all of that finally comes together and the meet-up happens, both kids are suddenly shy and spend the first hour trying to crawl inside their parent, and then their second hour fighting over one of the hundreds of toys they could play with separately.
Sounds like fun, right? I told you I was lucky.
ALSO READ: Nurturing healthy play: encouraging creativity and outdoor play
BabyYumYum FAQ’s on how to organise play dates
How do I choose the right children for a play date?
Choose children of a similar age with shared interests. It’s also helpful to consider their personalities to ensure they get along well.
Should I invite the parents to stay?
For younger children or first-time play dates, it’s considerate to invite the parents to stay. For older children, a drop-off arrangement may be fine.
What’s a good length for a play date?
For toddlers and young children, 1-2 hours is ideal. Older children can handle 2-3 hours, depending on the activities planned.
How should I plan activities for the play date?
Choose simple, age-appropriate activities like crafts, games, or outdoor play. Keep a few options ready to adapt to the children’s moods.
Do I need to provide snacks?
Yes, it’s thoughtful to offer healthy snacks and drinks. Check for allergies or dietary restrictions in advance.
How can I ensure safety during the play date?
Childproof your home, supervise activities, and keep first-aid supplies handy. Also, inform parents of any pets or potential hazards.
What should I do if there’s a conflict between the children?
Stay calm and intervene gently. Encourage sharing and communication to resolve the issue. Redirect their attention to a new activity if needed.
Is it necessary to send a reminder before the play date?
Yes, a quick message a day or two before the play date confirms attendance and ensures everyone remembers the details.
How do I handle cancellations?
Be understanding if someone cancels. If possible, reschedule or invite another child to keep the play date enjoyable for everyone.
What’s a good way to end a play date?
Wrap up with a calm activity like reading or a quiet game. Thank the children and parents for coming and discuss future play dates if it went well.
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