How to Host and Enjoy a Playdate

Playdates can be extremely rewarding for families, they offer several benefits such as providing children with opportunities for social interaction, engaging in creative play, and exploring different environments.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of playdates, appropriate ages for them, and offer our creative tips for hosting the ultimate playdates in a variety of settings.

The Benefits of Playdates for Young Children

Studies in the UK have supported the importance of playdates in contributing to children’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth. According to research by the University of Cambridge, play aids children in developing problem-solving skills, enhances creativity, and promotes their emotional wellbeing.

Playdates open essential opportunities for young children such as learning how to communicate, sharing, and collaborating with others. Building these foundations from an early age, helps children build skills needed for future relationships and teamwork whether in an educational setting, work setting, or family setting.

Playdates can also aid in reducing separation anxiety and increases comfort in unknown social settings for toddlers and younger children.

Appropriate Ages for Playdates

There are no age restrictions on when playdates can begin as playdates can start as young as infancy. However, playdates can become more beneficial once children are a little older as they are able to interact with children.

For infants, playdates may involve parents a little more as they set up simple activities and setup the most suitable toys for 0 to 3 months, or toys for 3 to 6 months. However, by the age of 2, children are able to participate in parallel play, which involves children playing alongside another child, this is the perfect time to introduce baby dolls, wooden toys, Happyland or games and puzzles.

By the age of 3 to 4 years old, children learn to interact more directly and engage with other children socially and physically through playtime. At this age, games such as construction toys, musical toys, arts and crafts and role play toys are great for playdates and interactive play.

Hosting a Playdate in the Park

Parks are a great place to host a playdate for young children, especially if it is your first-time hosting. Parks offer plenty of space and activities for children to keep busy. Here’s how to make the most out of a park for a playdate:

• Child-Friendly Parks: Choose a park that is safe for younger children and has suitable play areas. Some parks have multiple play areas, one area that is more suitable for older children, while the other area will have soft surfaces and play structures catering for toddlers and younger children. We recommend parks that have safety gates around the play areas as you will be able to enjoy a drink while talking to other parents without fear of your child running off.
• Activities: Despite having a play area, plan some fun games and activities to keep the children’s play dynamic. Bring along bubbles, outdoor toys, garden toys or play simple games like sleeping lions, or musical statues to keep young ones entertained.
• Snacks and Drinks: We recommend packing healthy snacks and plenty of water. Consider other children’s food allergies and preferences when planning what to bring.
• Boundaries: Ensure to establish clear boundaries on where the children can play, i.e. stay in the gated area. This will keep the safe and within sight.

Hosting a Playdate in an Indoor Play Area

Indoor playdates are a much simpler option for those rainy days. Using an indoor setting where there are plenty of activities planned can help you take full control over the day and ensure it is perfect for the children.

• The Venue: Ensure the venue is age appropriate. Some play areas cater to specific age groups, be sure to check the venue you are picking is suitable for the children attending.
• Cleanliness and Safety: Making sure the venue you have chosen has a clean facility and well-maintained equipment is essential. Many indoor areas have padded flooring around their play areas and supervised play which is beneficial depending on the age group of your playdate outing.
• Timings: We recommend booking your play areas during quieter times to avoid crowds. Weekday mornings are typically calmer and have less bookings.
• Engagement: Despite indoor play areas being designed to encourage independent play, we recommend parents getting involved and joining in on the fun to keep their children engaged.

Hosting a Playdate at Home

Playdates at home can be a comfortable and convenient experience. This allows you to personalise the day and tailor activities for your guests.

• Prepare: Prepare your space and child-proof your home. Remove anything that can be easily broken or can be a tripping hazard for younger children and set-up the space with toys that are suitable for the age group attending. Shop toys by age to find the best toys for your playdate.
• Activities: Organise a range of structured and free play. Arts and crafts, games and puzzles, and baking can be great indoor activities for children to enjoy and remain entertained. For younger children and toddlers, consider sensory toys like sand and water tables, Play Dough or building blocks for kids.
• Snacking Table: Set up simple and creative snacks for your guests such as mini sandwiches and little fruits pots, ensure there are plenty of juice boxes for children or their parents to grab.
• Timings: Depending on the children’s ages, we recommend keeping the playdate short, possibly 1 to 3 hours. This prevents the children being overstimulated and ensures children leave on a good note.

Playdates are a wonderful way to enhance your child’s skills from social skills to cognitive skills. Whether you choose a playdate indoors in the comfort of your own home or a play area, or choose to go to a park, there are several ideas to bring forth in each setting. Studies have consistently highlighted the importance play and how it can contribute to a child’s development.

By planning your playdate, you can ensure a welcoming and stimulating environment for both the parents and the children attending.

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