11 Ideas for the Perfect Home Play Date

Want to plan a play date? Here's how to keep the parents happy and the kids busy -- even if they're just in the goo-goo-ga-ga phase.

By Gabby Cullen October 24, 2014

Hosting your first play date can feel like going to prom: butterflies in the tummy, wondering if things will click, hoping for no awkward silence. But being the host has big rewards if you don’t mind a little planning. You’ll get to trade battle stories with other parents and let the kids play — even if they’re just in the goo-goo-ga-ga phase. Scroll through our flipbook for tips for creating the perfect play date, from snacks to activities to mocktails.

Break the Ice: The M&M Game

Babies can enjoy a play date by just drooling all over toys and maybe playing a round of patty cake or two. Parents on the other hand, may think a couple of hours with strangers seems a little too much like to walking into the lion's den. The M&M Game is simple and will get guests opening up in no time. Each candy color is coordinated with a question, so grab a handful and gets to confessing! Crafty mama Candice has the how-to on this and several other games at She's Crafty Crafty.

Photo: Candice Shenck via She's Crafty Crafty

How do you prepare for the perfect play date? Share with us in the Comments!

— Gabby Cullen
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Featured photo: Parker Knight via flickr