- Let your children take the lead: At this age, kids are starting to plan the time they spend together at school — who they’ll eat lunch with, for instance, and who they’ll meet up with on the blacktop during recess. So it makes sense to allow your grade-schooler the same freedom when it comes to making playdates
- Keep it small: Three really can be a crowd when it comes to playdates, says Sara Wilford, director of the Early Childhood Center at Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, New York. Instead, try to limit playdates to one friend at a time. Otherwise it’s too easy for the third child to feel left out
- Keep it short — at least at first: An hour is fine for a first visit, and two hours is plenty for after-school get-togethers, says Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, teacher Lisa Church, the author of Everyday Creative Play. Wait until the kids are seasoned pals before you attempt longer weekend visits or sleepovers
- Get the facts on food: Because your guest will probably have a snack or two during the playdate, be sure to ask his parents about any potential food allergies, sensitivities, or preferences: Is he allergic to peanuts? Lactose intolerant? Vegetarian?
Some Playdate Guidelines for Fathers
Great Dad Talks
Great Dad Talks is a series of conversations with experts on all aspects of the family adventure. With the perspective that “dads don’t always think like moms,” our mission is to support dad voices and our slightly different approaches to parenting. We’ll try to find solutions to every day challenges like getting kids off the couch and making STEM classes available for both boys and girls. But we’ll also tackle bigger issues when they come. The one main theme will be to support dads in the most important role of their lives that of being a great dad. Connect with us at greatdad.com and watch the video version of these podcasts at YouTube.com/greatdadnews
170. Understanding Emotional Influence in Parenting with Dr. Brian Des Roches
In this episode of Great Dad Talks, I talk with psychotherapist and author Dr. Brian DeRoche (Living a Trigger Free Life) about the neuroscience behind why our kids trigger us and how nervous systems influence each other through co-regulation. Brian explains “emotional influence,” the role of nonverbal cues and facial presence in creating safety, and how repeated disconnection can teach children painful emotional lessons about not mattering.
Whether you’re dealing with tantrums, feeling triggered at home, or just want to connect more deeply with your kids, this interview will give you science-backed guidance for building stronger, happier family bonds.
Check out Brian’s website at www.briandesroches.com
Visit these links and embark on the path to becoming the best parent you can be:
– GreatDad.com/coaching
– GreatDad.com/pq
– Gratitude course: bit.ly/3NMLDNC
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