Important. It's a way for the kids to spend time together outside of school and structured sports etc and build friendships. It wasn't as big a deal when everyone just went outside to play for hours in the neighborhood. How else are they supposed to build friendships in the small times between things? My kids are 4th and 1st and both ask to spend time with specific friends and I try to make that happen.

Important, I used them as a reward and also as a chance to hangout with other moms. A good social time for all.

Anonymous wrote:They matter from preschool through 2nd grade when sports take over.

Certainly it’s easier to arrange playdates before many kids get busy with sports but not every kid gets busy with sports. If yours isn’t, there are others who are available for playdates.

Important, but I have an only.

Very important and I’m glad to be past that stage. It’s a pain.

What do you find stressful about them?

I agree spending time outside of school with friends deepens their friendships. We do quite a few with families (preschool) and friends (ES).

If you don't want to host at your house you can always suggest playgrounds etc.

As important as the kids think. If they are begging, make it happen. If they don't care, you don't have to push it, unless you have social concerns for them or like the family.

Important. Learning how to host, to share your space and things, to play one on one, etc.

They are less stressful as kids get older and there are several kids there.

They matter from preschool through 2nd grade when sports take over.

I think they matter. Kids are social.

I’m an introvert but my kid is a n only. Happy to do play dates otherwise my kid needs so much from me. I give it, but it gets draining sometimes.

At the risk of hurting feelings I will say that playdates arranged between other SAHMs were generally pretty easy,

How old is your kid? Can you find a family you like enough where you guys take turns having the kids over without the parents? I knew a family that did this and it was like having a free babysitting swap.

The thread about how to communicate that you don't want to do playdates with another family got me thinking about this. Do you think playdates are essential? Somewhat important? Could be skipped altogether?

I will admit I find playdates kind of stressful and don't enjoy doing them. My kid asks for them though so I do them. I'd love to skip it though.