Playdates 101

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:OP here. OK got it.

If I suggest a playground meetup, I shouldn't bring the baby correct? I wouldn't bring him to someone else's house, but I'm not sure about playgrounds.

For a playground I would bring all the kids. It’s just a regular trip to the playground with a guaranteed friend to play with.

same, I'd bring all the kids but try to be mindful that the one parent didn't get stuck taking care of my older kid while I tended to the younger ones. I often start a game like tag or follow the leader (if needed) where I carry the baby and my middle kid and the older kids and any other kids around can all play

[Anonymous]

I have 3 kids. I used to have 2 kids and host all the time. Then I had a baby and like you, did not like to host. My kids are older now and my youngest is 5. I host a lot for the 5yo, not so much for the older 2.

I have initiated a few play dates in kindergarten. I reached out to 3 kids. I invited child over to my house at a time that was convenient for me. All 3 people could not do the initial time I suggested. First play date my child ever had was at a friend whose mom countered with a time at her house. The other 2 we scheduled at a mutually convenient time the following week.

I very rarely host play dates on weekends unless I am friends with mom. Then it is more for adult time.

[Anonymous]

Don’t set rigid rules on what other people should do. Accept when you can, invite kids too. Let it evolve.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Don’t set rigid rules on what other people should do. Accept when you can, invite kids too. Let it evolve.

MOST IMPORTANTLY- never assume what someone else means. Ask questions and be clear with your responses. People get really squirrelly from insufficient communication. No need to blow up someone’s phone, but be clear - and flexible

[Anonymous]

Sometimes people get busy and forget. It’s not personal. If you want a play date, set one up!! It’s very easy and should be lax

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Sometimes people get busy and forget. It’s not personal. If you want a play date, set one up!! It’s very easy and should be lax

Yes, something simple like "would you like to meet at the playground at (date/time)? I'll bring my other kids, too."

Go from there. Once you get that far you can figure out snacks or whatever if you need to. Just get them together and let them play. Both of my kids got annoyed if things were too arranged.