How to Entertain Kids on Playdates
One of the most important skills children need to learn is how to socialize with their peers. Playdates are planned social activities in which kids get a chance to interact with one another. These get-togethers also give parents a chance to socialize as well. The secret to having a successful playdate is to make sure the kids are entertained. If they are having fun, they will be less likely to misbehave.
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Things You'll Need
- Toys
- Ice cream and toppings
- Cardboard box
- Socks
- Markers
- Games
- Art supplies
- Paper
Instructions
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Provide age-appropriate toys. If you have toys that interest the kids, they will be entertained. Provide enough toys to go around if you have a group of children. If you want to talk and visit with the other parents, offer toys that don't make a great deal of noise.
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Take the kids to an indoor or outdoor playground. Even if you plan to visit an outdoor playground, have an indoor location on standby in case of bad weather.
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Invite kids to participate in an ice cream party. Offer a variety of flavors and toppings with which they can form their own ice cream creations.
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Cut out a square "window" in a large cardboard box. Provide old but clean socks and markers for kids to make their own puppets. They can take turns getting behind the box and performing a puppet show through the window you made.
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Set up game stations if you have more than a few children at the playdate. Place a simple game at each station. Marbles, hopscotch and playing cards for "go fish" work well for younger children.
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Create art stations where kids can paint, draw, color or sculpt.
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Tips & Warnings
Offer a snack at some point during the playdate. Even if kids are entertained, they may get grumpy if they are hungry.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
