Strategies For Smooth Playdates

In this podcast episode, Shauna & Rachel discuss strategies for managing playdates with their children. Key points include:

1. Start with a Snack: Ensure children are not hungry to avoid unhappiness.
2. Open Doors Policy: Keep doors open during play for safety.
3. Game Rules: Host's child is the first player for video games at their house.

For imaginative play, here's three main rules:

1. Inclusion: Everyone can join the game.
2. Autonomy: Each child chooses their own role.
3. Respect: Use polite requests to avoid controlling others.

They discuss managing dynamics between mixed-age groups, scheduling activities flexibly, and using a three-strike rule for Shauna's 6-year-old with autism. They emphasize the importance of free play, conflict resolution, and allowing children to learn through experience.