Ultimately, play dates a wonderful way to get a new mama and her child(ren) and have some adult fun too. Practicing patience and manners can go far when visiting a new home, and hopefully the fun outweighs any spills or tears.
What are some of your go-to tips for a successful play date?
Is a play date for the kids or for the parents? In a way, it's really for both. We all know the anticipation of meeting up with another mama, sharing some coffee or tea, and putting our littles on the floor to play while we get to talk to another adult about something other than diaper cream or soother preferences.
Most times, play dates are wonderful. We and our children get to make new friends, and have a fun time. But what about those times that the play date doesn’t go so well? How do we handle it when our little one turns into a sour puss who doesn’t want to share? Or what if one of them ends up biting or hitting the other child? These types of incidents can quickly spoil the fun of a play date.
What can we do to ensure both grown-ups and little ones have a fun play date? Here are my tips for fun, relaxing play date for baby and mama.
- Make sure your little one is well-rested. If baby needs a nap, try to squeeze one in before the play date or hopefully on the ride over. A well-rested child is likely to be more ready to experience a new environment and little friend.
- Bring some of your own toys. Sometimes a new environment is overwhelming for a little one. Having a familiar toy or favourite stuffy can make it easier for baby to feel more comfortable in her new friend’s space.
- If something goes wrong, the kids aren’t getting along, or one of the littles has full out meltdown don’t feel bad. These things happen. When they’re babies it’s one thing. Sometimes they don’t quite know how to share. When they’re toddlers, sharing is still a learned behaviour. Distraction can work well. If they’re fighting over a toy, maybe switching to a craft or dance party (mamas can dance too!) can be a welcome diversion. These glitches are but temporary and soon they'll be back to playing (playing separately is fine too) so mamas can get back to their coffee and chatting.
Ultimately, play dates a wonderful way to get a new mama and her child(ren) and have some adult fun too. Practicing patience and manners can go far when visiting a new home, and hopefully the fun outweighs any spills or tears.
What are some of your go-to tips for a successful play date?
