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Guide to the best activities for a playdate

Here are a few simple ways to provide entertainment for the kids
Here are a few simple ways to provide entertainment for the kids

Hosting a playdate for your child and their friends? There's no reason to fear or stress out over the logistics on how to keep toddlers occupied. Here are a few simple and effective ways to provide entertainment for the children.

Water play: an inflatable baby pool is always a hit in Singapore's hot climate. Pump it up, fill it up with water, throw in some toys, and you've got yourself play date heaven! Don't own an inflatable pool? Keep it simple by putting water beads in a large bowl and letting the kids scoop away with small cups and spoons.

Imaginative play: bring out a few sets of kiddy-sized dress up outfits and accessories, like a doctor, fireman, chef, etc. Kids love dressing up for the part, and can then play out scenarios acting as their newfound persona.

Cookery: few children can resist the allure of cookies or cupcakes, especially when freshly baked! Get them involved by letting them don an apron and help stir the ingredients together and measure it all out. They love seeing (and eating!) the results of their labour!

Getting creative: most young children are tactile learners and are easily pleased with a few new (to them) toys. Make it a learning experience by allowing them to explore their creative side with building toys such as LEGO. Manipulating the bricks helps a child learn hand-to-eye coordination and motor control, with the added bonus of being able to build an object to play with.

Crafts: spread out a few sheets of coloured paper, stickers, and little craft objects like pom poms and sequins, and you've got yourself a crafting table! Let the kids go nuts with kiddy-safe scissors and some water-based glue, and they can bring home their own handmade creations later.

Most of all, remember the rules for a successful playdate—keep it small and keep it short. One or two invited guests will keep your playdate interactive but manageable, and it should not last longer than one or two hours. Don't forget a snack and water break as well, to keep those tummies satisfied!

 


Beverly Burgess has lived in Australia, Shanghai and now Singapore. She is a social media addict, having worked in the online space for seven years at Microsoft and eBay. She then popped out Hunter, 3, and Carter, 1, and now her days are all about Family, Food and Fashion. She blogs at beverlys.net/blog