Hey Mama, are you planning a playdate but stuck for ideas? Keeping children entertained can be challenging, but it shouldn’t be stressful.
Playdates are a wonderful way for kids to develop social skills, build friendships, and have fun. Whether you prefer the indoors or outdoors, are short on space, or have a backyard paradise, this list is packed with fun and safe activities to have your little ones and their friends giggling for hours.
1. Craft station
Art is a fantastic way for children to express themselves and develop their imagination. It also promotes the development of cognitive faculties and fine motor skills. They create something they can be proud of, fostering a sense of accomplishment.
Invest in diverse art supplies and set up a craft station. Make sure you have the essentials — colored paper, markers, crayons, paints, stickers, glue, and even buttons. Throw in some glitter for extra pizzazz. Choose simple projects such as making paper plate masks, decorating picture frames, or creating handprint art.
Include sensory play like window painting and homemade playdough making. Combining art and sensory activities helps growing kids understand the world through touch, sight, smell, taste, and hearing.
Ensure the supplies you purchase are non-toxic. Also, supervise the use of scissors and glue to prevent mishaps. If you’re watching preschoolers, keep an eye on small items that could be choking hazards.
2. Cooking and baking
If your children are old enough to go into the kitchen, invite their besties for a cooking session. Baking and cooking with them has numerous benefits. The activity:
- Cultivates bonding and relationship building.
- Supports creativity.
- Teaches them how to follow instructions.
- Boosts motor skills.
- Improves their kitchen skills.
Find simple, safe recipes little ones can manage, including the age-old cookies and cupcakes. Check online for ideas and inspiration. Always supervise closely in the kitchen, encourage healthy choices, and use child-friendly tools when possible. Kids love the hands-on experience and — of course — tasting their delicious creations.
3. DIY obstacle course
Create a safe obstacle course in your backyard or living room, and let the children hold friendly, timed competitions. Use items like hula hoops to jump through, cones to weave around, and pillows and soft mats for somersaults.
Whether indoors or outdoors, obstacle courses are great for physical exercise, promote problem-solving, and teach good sportsmanship and the importance of teamwork. These activities are ideal for playdates because you can tailor the courses to match everyone’s ages and physical abilities. Ensure you address hazards like cushioning furniture corners, removing sharp objects, and avoiding slippery surfaces to prevent injuries.
4. Water play or swimming
It’s your turn to host the playdate, but it’s sweltering outside, and you’re wondering what to do with the kids. Go the ancient way and let them play in the water. Children love splashing around during hot days, as it helps cool them down, among other benefits.
Inflatable pools are suitable for younger children, but let older ones play in the pool if you have one where you live. Many communities also have open-to-the-public swimming spots you can drive or walk to. Public pools are great places to hang out — they can mingle with others, possibly expanding their friendship circle. It’s also an opportune moment to meet other moms.
A pool isn’t the only way to enjoy water play. To entertain the party, use sprinklers, water balloons, and even spray bottles. To make the play more vibrant, add food coloring to the water.
Remember — sun protection is non-negotiable, especially during summertime playdates. Apply sunscreen liberally on kids at least 20 minutes before they go outside, and reapply after 80 minutes of water play, swimming, or every two hours outside.
5. Storytelling circle
Gather the kids, form a circle, and take turns telling stories. You can use books or encourage them to create their tales. Make it interactive by asking questions or letting them act out parts of the story. You can even make quick costumes from items around the house to get them into character.
Storytelling boosts cognitive and emotional development while fostering a love for reading and creative endeavors. Plus, they learn about how other people live around the world.
6. Science experiments
Spark curiosity and a love for learning with exciting experiments. There are endless possibilities for safe hands-on fun, from baking soda volcanoes to creating slime. Gather all the materials beforehand and keep a keen eye as the little Einsteins mix solvents and powders. Ask them to follow step-by-step instructions and always double-check that no harmful substances are used.
7. Outdoor scavenger hunt
Organize a scavenger hunt in the yard or take the group to a nearby park. Designate items for them to find, such as a smooth rock, a red leaf, harmless insects, and drying grass. Outdoor scavenger hunts stimulate curiosity about nature, enabling kids to learn about the environment. Kids also get their daily workout from running and walking about searching for the “hidden” gems.
Establish boundaries to keep children within a safe area where you can observe their interactions. Explain the rules before they begin, and provide each one with a checklist and a small bag to collect their treasures. Pairing them up can encourage teamwork.
8. Garden exploration
Garden exploration is an exciting way to entertain your kids and their playmates. It teaches them about nature and encourages them to spend time outdoors. Guide them as they observe plants, flowers, insects, and small birds. Provide magnifying glasses, notebooks, and pens for them to record their findings.
This is also an excellent opportunity to teach children about harmful plants and bugs. To avoid exposing anyone to potential health hazards, make a point of inquiring from the parents of your little ones’ friends about allergies.
9. Dance party
Kids love music, so put on their favorite tunes and let loose with a dance party. It’s a fantastic way for them to learn, express themselves, and support physical health. Make it more fun by incorporating games like musical chairs and the freeze dance. Choose a slip-free surface for the dance floor, clear the area of obstacles, and cushion sharp corners to prevent sore knees, trips, or falls.
10. Backyard camping
If the playdate extends into a sleepover, bring out the sleeping bags, put up a tent, and tell stories under the stars. Pretend to roast marshmallows over a flameless campfire made from LEDs. You can make s’mores over a real fire if you’re hosting older children.
Backyard camping sparks imagination and gives kids a taste of adventure without leaving home. It’s a safe and fun activity for playdates because it happens in a familiar, controlled setting. If you’ll remain outdoors overnight, request the young campers to stay within the yard and use bug spray.
Plan the perfect playdate
Playdates allow children to build social skills and boost mental and physical health, ensuring their well-being. With these ideas in your back pocket, you’re guaranteed to host a memorable play party everyone will enjoy!
