Your Complete Guide to Playdates

Kids like to hang out with their pals. Parents need a break. Hello, playdates! If things go well, they can be a blast for everyone. They're also one of the key ways your child learns how to get along with others. For both hosts and guests, get your protocol down pat.

By Mary Jo DiLonardo

Heather Weston

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The Rules of Engagement

Keep the Numbers Low
At any age, the least risky move is to host a one-on-one. This way there's no fear of anyone getting left out. Also, the fewer kids the better the chance for quiet, independent play. There are some exceptions: Babies really don't play together anyway -- it's usually about parents -- so more can be merrier. As the kids get older (after about age 4) they can usually handle a few more friends in the fray. But be prepared: the more children around, the more involved you'll have to stay.

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Comments (2)

CandiW wrote:

As a nanny, you have lots of job tasks on your job description. One of these tasks is arranging play dates for the kids in your care. What factors do you need to consider when arranging play dates? Guest kids (i.e., are the guests compatible? Does everyone get along well? Is the size of the group of kids reasonable?) Location... http://blog.nannies4hire.com/playdates/750

11/22/2011 12:06:00 PM Report Abuse

leahjmoses wrote:

I am in a mommies group and at any given playdate there are between 6-15 of us. The kids range in ages 16 mo- 24 mo. They LOVE it. My lil one get so excited when I tell him we are going to see all his friends. Yes it's loaud and bit crazy...but the kids love it. I thnk they are learning to social by being in a large group much faster than 1 or 2 friends at at time. I think the older they get the smaller the groups...i.e. 4 or 5 should have 2 or 3 friends. I think this stories a bit backwards.

8/16/2011 02:13:05 PM Report Abuse