How to Host the “Perfect” Play Date

Guest post by Deidra Romero

I just read this article, “How to Host the Perfect Play Date for Mom & Baby.” And I can’t get it out of my head.

It made me so mad. 

When I first started having friends over for play dates I did everything the article recommends. I sliced fruit and cheeses and set out dainty coffee cups with antique spoons. I spent the day prior to KILLING myself making sure the house was spotless.

And the playdates went well. But as I got to know my friends better I realized–that’s not the stuff that matters.

Play dates are not about having a clean house. They aren’t about showing off your cute antique spoons. They aren’t even really about the kids. It’s a little about the kids.

Play dates are really for the mommas. The mommas who need caffeine and adult conversation. And who need to just GET OUT OF THE HOUSE.

 

So here are my steps to hosting the perfect play date.

1 – Clear some space somewhere in your house.

2 – Boil some water for coffee or tea.

3 – Text your mom friends in the area with a time.

Other helpful tips:  Make sure sharp objects are stored, and there is toilet paper in the bathroom.

When did things get so complicated that we can’t just invite people over? Even when the house is a wreck and all we have to offer is tea? No one will remember how messy your house was. The only thing those moms will remember is how you made them feel:  welcomed. They will remember that you gave them space to breathe and talk and a moment to relate to someone who understands them.

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being present. 

Deidra Romero is a freelance writer, editor and blogger at ParentingUpstream.com where she writes about parenting for Millennials. She and her husband live in the Nashville area with their 3-year-old, Ezra.