Tips for successful playdates!

Play Date Tips from PlayGroup leader Renee Cogorno

• Organize the play for the children:

  1. A picture schedule of the playdate is always helpful (include the toys available, if you will have a snack, and when it will be time to clean up and say goodbye)

  2. Offer 3 choices of toys that you think the children would have fun playing with. I like to think of them in terms of concepts (building toys, vehicles, imaginary, etc). You can mix and match the type of toy; all from different concepts, all from the same, or two from one and one from another, whatever you think would work best with the children). 

• Help them set up their play and talk about what they want to do.

• Let them know you are there to help if there is a problem

• Use toys to recreate real life activities. Children love to act out what they see and do in real life (i.e. creating a slide or setting up a familiar train route).

• Remember that all play is ok, there might be some watching, some silence, some loud volumes (sorry NYC neighbors!) and some difficulties sharing. It is all play!