Activity: Playtime

Be the producer not the director of his play. A parent’s job is to provide some fun objects, materials, or toys to invite a child’s imagination to take off, not to lead the play.

Optimal playdates

A playdate with two or three young children max is the optimal number for socialization without intimidation.

Playdates and pets

When hosting playdates, as a courtesy, tell your guests ahead of time if you have any pets. Moms and kids may not be able to attend because they have allergies, and it’s best for them to know before they show up and start sneezing.

Planning a play date

When planning a playdate, don’t invite everyone you know. It’s not a carnival. It’s a date. So pick one friend your kid really likes… or one mom you really like.

Add a little structure

While it’s great to let kids play on their own terms, it can be helpful to provide an activity later in the playdate.

Responsibility at playdates

When attending a playdate, be responsible for your own child; don’t expect the other parent to handle all of the problems. Help with cleanup or at least offer.

Playdates and age groups

For toddlers, the age of the other children at the playdate doesn’t really matter. Most kids will find some value in spending time with another child even if their ages don’t match up perfectly.

Timing your playdates

There’s no sense squeezing in a playdate right before your toddler’s nap. Begin playdates when little one will be well rested…and fed.

Playing on their level

Kids feel emotional closeness when parents get down on their level and play, engage, and ask about their day.

Limiting play dates

Play dates for two- to 3-year-olds work best if they’re limited to two children close in age, somewhat structured in terms of activities, and supervised by both sets of parents.

When tots socialize

Around the time he turns 2, your toddler will start to actively reach out to other children. But as with any other skill, he learns how to socialize with others by trial and error.

Limiting play dates

Unless you relish the idea of a pair of hyper toddlers trashing your entire house, limit the domain of play dates. You can either gate off a single room or simply shut doors to rooms that are off-limits.

Keeping occupied while playing

After your toddler starts to play on his/her own, keep a magazine nearby and sneak a peek at a page while she is stacking blocks. It’s okay to take a break! She’ll let you know when she needs some more attention, interaction, or direction.

Toys in groups and alone

Plastic bats are great for solo play but a disaster in a group. Select age and temperament-appropriate toys.

Socializing your toddler

Around the time he turns 2, your toddler will start to actively reach out to other children. But as with any other skill, he learns how to socialize with others by trial and error.

Looking for playdates

Many parents are lucky to have built-in playmates for their children through neighbors & friends. Others have to search them out. Local parenting support groups, churches, childcares, and other social organizations are good places to look.

Time limit for playdates

Two hours is the magic number when it comes to playdates. That’s just enough time to play, have a snack, take a break, and play again, before wrapping things up.

Fast-food play dates

A play date at a fast food restaurant may not be the healthiest choice, but it’s still a lot fun. Meet at one that has that has an indoor play area.

Play dates and tot’s ages

For toddlers, the age of the other children at the playdate doesn’t really matter. Most kids will find some value in spending time with another child even if their ages don’t match up perfectly.

Preparing for playdates

Having a clean and child proofed home is important, especially when hosting a first ever play date. For first play dates, parents often want to attend or at least view your home.