Play dates for 5 year olds

[Overthebow]

My 5 year old dd wants to invite a few friends round on a play date after school. What do 5 year olds do on play dates? Should I plan some activities? And how long should it be for if I’m providing dinner? We’d be home from school by 3.30pm.

You can give them some ideas, or set up an activity. Keep popping by and check if they need anything.
We usually get home the same time, I give the kids a snack. Then off to play and dinner around 5:30. Pickup 6/6:30.
check with parents if the kids have any dietary requirements.

Walk home via the park to burn off energy, snack when you get in, let them choose an activity or what they play with but keep a close eye on them, dinner and collection at a reasonable time. TBH at that age, I’d probably say to get them picked up before dinner the first couple of times they come.

Mine just run off and play with their toys and show their friends until I shout them down for food.

We usually did Friday evening ones at that age so pick up time at 7pm
School night I would do food at 5 and pick up 6.
I would have some activities planned (like simple crafts or a game) but if they’re happier playing leave them be.
If it’s dry I would go home via the playground so they can use up some energy.