Sleepover for almost 8year old

[Ispy]

My dd has been invited to a sleepover in a couple of weeks for a birthday party. DH and I are still mulling it over and haven't made a firm decision yet but we are leaning towards letting her go and spend the night (a first for her and us).

Can anyone help me on having a general talk with her beforehand. I don't want to scare her obviously, but I also need to let her know about 'dangers' without calling them dangers. I'm not articulating it well but basically anything that makes her uncomfortable etc in someone else's house and what to do.. Argh not very good at expressing myself today.

[Batteryhuman]

What dangers? I don't get it? She is just going to stay at a friends house. If you think the parents are not safe then obviously don't go but if it is a family you know then why should it be any more dangerous than staying at home? Surely the worst that is likely to happen is a bit of teasing (girls of that age) and if she has really never spent a night away then mabe homesickness.

[Batteryhuman]

Sorry that was a bit harsh!

I'll bump you and let someone nicer than me allay your fears.

[Portofino]

Agree with Battery - what "dangers"?

[seeker]

I presume that you have brought her up with the knowledge that if anyone asks her to do anything she isn't happy with she should say no? And that it's OK to say No to grown ups?

If so you don't have to say anything - just tell her to have a lovely time. And be prepared to go and collect her at 11.00 at night!

[GavinBl]

Its a wrench, the first time, all the paranoias rush forward. But ultimately, its part of the process - you can't watch over them forever, and it creeps up bit by bit.

You are trusting someone else to look after your children.

My daughter was about 7ish when she had a first sleepover.

If you are happy with the adults involved, then I think you just have to take the plunge, and a have short chat about being polite and stuff.

But about inappropriate things, what are you actually going to do? You have to trust the people inovled, I'm afraid.