What time would you let your 8yr old play out until?

[dorito]

My DS is nearly 8, and is quite friendly with a boy in his class. However, this boy sometimes calls for him around 6.30pm asking him to play out etc. I think this is too late, because as a rule, my DS is in bed by 8.00, but starts getting ready between 7.00 and 7.30pm (Bath, telly, supper etc!) I would rather his friend comes round straight from school and goes home by about 6'ish at the latest. Am I being over protective and trying to wrap my DS up in cotton wool. Obviously the other lad has a lot later bed time and a more relaxed schedule. I would appreciate any comments and advice!

[FrayedKnot]

I think some kids of that age need more sleep than others but you have a good routine which suits your DS, and sounds pretty sensible.

I would say sorry, after 6pm is family time in your house (no need to say that your DS is going to bed soon!), and ask him to come earlier if he wants to play.

[festiveface]

my ds is 7 and he plays out until 7pm providing he has already done his school reading book. He goes to bed at 7:30pm

[thewomanwhothoughtshewasahat]

no I don;t think you are. but it sounds mainly like it's down to different routines - he's possibly having his tea much earlier than you do, and is then allowed to play afterwards. have a chat with his mum and if this is the case maybe you could both change tea-time a wee bit some nights so that their free time coincides. iyswim. (or invite him round for tea)

[ScummyMummy]

I think that's v reasonable, on a school night particularly.

[rummum]

Ahhhh... We have been having the same arguement in the Rummum house... like you, my 8 year old son is in bed by 8pm.. we have tea at the latest at 6:30 then its time to wind down for bed...
My son plays football with a lot of older boys, who obviously go to bed a lot later.. he does often have a friend for tea.. they usually leave at about 6:30..
and NO in answer to your question you are not being overpretective...

[Blossomhill]

Well I don't let my 8 1/2 year old out at all to play (without adult supervision). Too young imo!

[dorito]

Many thanks for all your replies, I can't believe the answers came in so quick! I do certainly feel a lot better about this now, and am going to stick to my guns! Would definitely move teatimes about occasionally or invite the boy around for tea once in a while. Did worry in case I was 'mollycoddling', but 8.00 sounds like a reasonable bed time in everyone eyes, so it can't just be me! Must admit, I do enjoy the wind down to bedtime and also DS likes being with his younger brother then, so would not like to see this special time disappear quite yet! Many thanks for all your replies - they were really helpful.