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Step 1
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.
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Step 2
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.
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Step 3
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.
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Step 4
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.
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Step 5
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.
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Step 6
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.
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Step 7
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.
