Turn Play Time Into Play Dates!

Nannies add a spark in the home. The one-on-one care they provide to children makes for great self-esteem boosters. Children experience individual learning. While the one-on-one care is great for child development, it is important for children to have social interaction as well. Play dates are great ways for caregivers to remain involved while helping children interact with others.

            In play dates, nannies can teach children how to interact emotionally and socially. They guide them to learn how relationships function in the form of friendships. Playing with other children provide the environment to learn how to share and compromise. Play dates are also strong antidotes to bullying. They provide the venue to introduce kids to the concept of accepting others.

            Children learn how to be polite and respectful during play dates. They’re able to learn to collaborate and cooperate with other kids and caregivers. Successful play dates are planned play dates. Forcing children to overplay may lead to restlessness depending on age. Allow them to “free” play for 60-90 minutes, maybe followed by a structured activity where everyone participates. By the end of the play date, children will have had adequate social interaction for the day and be ready to transition back into a one-on-one atmosphere.

            Play dates are easy activities for nannies to plan. They can be held in the house, park, a local gym, or Mommy and Me class. As part of the nanny’s responsibility, she should first be certain the parents are consulted about to whose home children are taken, or who may be coming into their home. Secondly, relay details about the play date back to the parents. Nannies can share how the kids interacted with others, how they respond in a group, and what sort of games they like the most. While the individual care and one-on-one playtime children receive at home is great for developmental growth, play dates help prepare children for the transition into the longer days of being with other children when they eventually enter school.