To what degree are you involved in your 6-year-old's choice of friends?

[Anonymous]

I'll encourage play dates with kids who I think are nice and could be compatible with my kid. But I'll give other kids a try, too. In fact, if DS seems to play or talk a lot about another child at all, I like to see their interactions up close so I can pick out any trouble spots (or praise any good behavior). Privately with DS after the fact, of course, unless there is bullying or a safety issue.

If a troublesome relationship is too volatile or clearly a bad influence and not improving, I'll discourage play dates.