Prepare Your Home for a Playdate

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

12 Jan 2008 04:52 AM

With the holidays over and winter here, the kids may be getting a little anxious. Playdates are a great way to allow your kids and yourself a way to socialize when you are stuck indoors. If you are hosting a playdate at your home, here are some things to keep in mind. Preparing your home will make the playdate go smoothly.

First pick the area for play. Decide where the kids can play and where they will be allowed to go. One large room that can be gated off for little ones is ideal. This way the parents can spend time playing an chatting instead of chasing down the youngsters. Also, having a sectioned off area will prevent kids from getting into your personal stuff, jumping on your bed, etc.

You may think that you have child proofed your home or play room, but think again. Other children may behave differently in your home, and you want to make sure to keep everyone safe. A child who has never been exposed to stairs before may find them fascinating, for example. Take a look with "new eyes" to see if there is anything you need to address.

Put away any special toys. If there are possessions that are dear to your children's hearts, consider putting them way in another room for the duration of the playdate. Inevitably things will get broken, and some toys, such as a favorite doll or a favorite blanket may be hard for your children to share.

Set out kid friendly snacks, such as cut fruit, brownies made in cupcake papers to reduce the crumbs, gold fish crackers, cherrios and more. Make sure to have plenty of wet wipes and dry napkins available.

Skip the table cloths that can get pulled down, the real dishes that can get broken and the candles that could be a hazard. Paper plates and paper cups are fine to use for playdates.

Consider seating in your play area. Sure, most kids and parents will get down on the floor, but what about those who may be pregnant? Make sure you have enough comfortable spots for all of the adults to sit, if they wish it.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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