How to Have a Preschool Playdate

By eHow Parenting Editor

Rate: (0 Ratings)

By the time a child is preschool age they usually are becoming social and enjoy playing with kids their own age. Play dates are an opportunity for preschool children to develop social skills and have fun. Following a few steps when arranging a play date will make it go smoothly and be an enjoyable time for everyone.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1
Think about the time of day your child is at his best. Some preschoolers still take naps. Do not schedule a play date close to nap time or right before lunch. If a child is hungry or tired she is more likely to be irritable and misbehave.
Step2
Pick a location. Consider having the play date at a public location such a park. Plan activities preschoolers could do together such as play miniature golf, go swimming or visit a petting zoo. Taking turns hosting a play date with other parents is also an option.
Step3
Limit the play date to preschool age children. You may have other children who are younger or older than your preschooler that you want to include on the play date. Keep in mind even a couple of years makes a big difference in a child's development. Older children may play too rough. Younger kids may not be able to do the same activities or keep up.
Step4
Remind children of play date rules. Preschoolers are still learning appropriate behavior. Tell children they need to share toys, take turns and there is no hitting or fighting allowed.
Step5
Stay close by and step in if you need to. If your preschooler is having trouble sharing or is arguing with another child allow her a minute to work the problem out. Even a young child may correct her own behavior. However before a situation escalates or a tantrum starts step in and redirect your child and remind her of play date rules.
Step6
Bring snacks. Have the kids take a break and eat a healthy snack such as raisins, cheese sticks or fruit. Bring bottled water or juice boxes to prevent little ones from becoming dehydrated.
Step7
Keep it short. Children who are preschool age do not have very long attention spans. Limit play dates to about two hours. You can adjust the time as needed on the next play date.

Post a Comment

POST A COMMENT

Request a New How-To Article

Looking for more How To information? Chances are there’s an eHow member who knows how to do what you’re looking to do. Submit an article request now!

eHow Article:  How to Have a Preschool Playdate

eHow Parenting Editor

eHow Parenting Editor

Category: Parenting

Articles: See my other articles

Related Ads

Parenting

JudyFord
Meet Judy Ford eHow’s Parenting Expert.