3 year old dd invited to tea. Advice needed thanks!

[milkyways]

My dd has been invited around for a play and tea at her friends house from nursery. Do you think the mother expects me to stay with her? Sorry, We only have family friends who we meet together as a family and I can happily leave her there alone but she has never had an invite from nursery before so I am a bit unsure about what play date etiquette is. Sorry if this is a stupid question!

[LovelyJudy]

It could be either - i think you should play it by ear, come in with her for a cup of tea, see that she's happy (and that you are with the setup) and then see if the mum looks like she's expecting you to go. She might say - why don't you go off and come back at 5 - or she might settle down for a natter...

[Esian]

I think if it's tea and a play the mother wouldn't expect you to stay all that time, but saying that, I don't think I would be happy leaving my 3yr old with a family I didn't know well.

If you're happy with the family I would play it by ear and go in with her. If you're offered a cup of tea then stay. If you're not happy you can always say your DD is being a bit clingy/naughty today, so you had better stay to keep an eye on her.

[milkyways]

Thanks for the reply!

[milkyways]

Thanks esian- We went to her friend's birthday party last year ane they're nice people. I think going in and seeing how it goes is a good idea. Thanks!

[Pelvicflooragogo]

If you don't know them I'd probably assume they mean you to stay but I don't think anyone would mind if you asked!

[sittinginthesun]

Hi. I personally wouldn't have left my 3 year old alone on a playdate, unless it was with one or two very close friends who knew him well.

If in doubt, just ask the Mum. I stayed on playdates until the end of Reception, but it was accepted as the norm by my friends. x