Entertaining Thursdays

I'm a planner by nature, so I probably have a checklist for most things. Today will be no different when my family hosts a play date. I find that having children over breeds chaos when you don't have a plan.

*Warning* Before you get excited, know that a plan with children is never sure fire. Their moods and social behaviors will ultimately dictate all but a plan gives you more ammunition to troubleshoot.

Here's what I do:

• Think: about whose coming and what age groups you'll have. Today it's my son (4), and 2 friends (5) & (7).


• Ask: your visitors parents about any allergies or special dietary needs. *you want to make sure you know what they cant be around or what could harm them.


• Snacks: plan for 2. Kids will eat snacks over meals anytime so make sure they are somewhat on the healthy side (ie: popcorn, veggie chips, raisins, fresh fruit, etc.)


• Plan Your Meal: only if your play date will go into lunch or dinner time. Remember to keep it simple. Sandwich's & chips work just fine.


• Take Home Treat- I always set aside a pack of cookies, homemade cupcake, or Popsicle that is given when parents arrive. Something to remember the good time. The take home snack can also be used as a bargaining tool for encouraged good behavior.


• Activities: TV only goes so far. I find that I keep the peace and everyone's attention when I change up the activities. *Today we'll play uno, sesame street domino's, & build a tent (b/c it's rainy) to watch a movie.

Tips/Tricks to remember:

• Keep Paper Products on hand: I take disposable cups and write each child's name on it. Less dishes mean less clean up for me when it's all said and done. I'm not big on juice boxes/pouches but if you serve these plan on 3/child. Why so many? They will drink 1 with a snack, 1 with their meal, and 1 just because they know you have them!


• Don't feel like you have to change activities just because you've planned them. If the kids are perfectly comfortable playing together with toys; don't sweat the craft or movie. I plan activities in case one something doesn't hold their attention.


• Prep: I prep anything I can in advance. This way I don't spend all my time in the kitchen or looking for the markers for craft or in the closet looking for the last place I saw the Operation Game. The smoother your transitions, the smoother your play date.

When you plan ahead, you and your guests get to have more fun!