How to Host a Neighborhood Children's Play Group

When you think of entertaining guests in your home, you might want to consider the needs of the children and parents in your neighborhood. Setting up a special area in your home for children's play groups is a great way to get to know your neighbors and encourage community well-being.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Spare room
• Crayons and paper
• TV and DVD player
• Children's movies, books and magazines
• Floor pillows or comfy chairs
• Children's tableware
• Baby monitor
• Toys like stuffed animals and action figures

1. Choose an area of your home to be the "kid friendly zone". This could be a spare bedroom or dining room with easy access to a bathroom.
2. Set up three to four activity centers designed for children. These stations can include a place to color, watch a movie or play with stuffed animals or action figures.
3. Designate a quiet reading area complete with appropriate children's books and magazines along with floor pillows or comfy chairs.
4. Prepare a table for the children to sit at complete with kid size paper plates, napkins, cups and cutlery.
5. Set up a baby monitor so you can hear what the children are talking about if the room is out of ear shot.
6. Lead the children and parents to the designated play area and reading center when they arrive. It might be good to show them where the bathroom is too.
7. Enjoy your party!

Tips & Warnings

• If you have children of your own, have them put away any toys that are special or valuable. This will prevent any disagreements over sharing prized possessions.
• Close off any rooms you don't want people entering.
• Be sure to remove any valuable or breakable items from the children's play area. If young children will be attending, remove any items that could harm them.

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