Successful Playdates
(From It’s So Much Work to Be Your Friend by Richard Lavoie)
Solid friendships are based upon common interests and social skills. Parents can aid their
children in developing interests that are interactive and also appealing to other children.
Playdates are a great way for children to practice their social competence.
Make house rules clear: no T.V. or computer.
Tidy the play area with your child – make it fun.
Put away special toys that will be difficult for your child to share.
Snacks are a good idea. (discuss with guest’s parents prior to the playdate)
Prepare games, activities, or crafts ahead of time.
Limit time frame to 1 - 2 hours.
Invite only one child at a time; avoid odd number groups.
Consider meeting at a neutral site, such as a park.
Discipline should never publicly embarrass a child; be firm and supportive. (“Go to your room. I
will help you, if you need me to.”)
Social interactions between children are teachable moments; praise and redirect as needed.
Involve the child in planning: who to invite, activities, snacks, etc...
At the end of the playdate, talk about what went well and what needs to be improved upon.
Your child should self-analyze with support.
Have several successful playdates at home before the first away date.
Arrange playdates with a child younger and older than your child – This is an opportunity for
your child to learn and teach.
Establish a relationship with the guest’s parents.
Make the last 15 minutes of the event the most fun!
******************************************************************************
*********
Teaching children to be a good host:
Make the play area appealing prior to guests arrival
Be welcoming; greet the guest warmly; introduce the guest to the family
The guest is right; the guest always goes first
Explain any house rules to the guest
Politely suggest ways to change an activity
Provide refreshments
Never criticize a visitor
Remain with the guest for the entire visit
Teaching children to be a good guest:
Bring all items the child will need
Bring all the items home after the visit
Show up and be on time
Observe the host family; notice cultural norms and family rules
Be nice to EVERYONE in the family and use manners
Ask permission before using anything that does not belong to the child
Avoid getting into family squabbles
Never complain or snoop
Ask the family if they need help with anything
Say good-bye and thank you
Clipart from PhillipMartin.info