Play dates

[GreenMeerkat]

Does the thought of play dates fill anyone else with a sense of dread?

DD has just started in Reception and I think she has been having a few issues (coming in from nursery, majority of the same children), in making friends. She came home today saying that she made friends with one of the new girls today which I'm delighted about, and wants her to come to our house. Now I know this is normal and play dates are great for kids but the idea of someone else's child in my care, who I barely know, just terrifies me. But so does the idea of having her mum round with her! I have social anxiety and I have really tried to put myself out there with the 'school mum's' for DDs benefit but the idea of being one on one I'm just not ready for.

I know I probably just need to put on my big girl pants and get over it but i just find it so hard. Can anyone empathise?

I never minded having other people's dc round to play - they get on and entertain themselves - that is the point!
However, it is very early in the school year to start. Most new starters are pretty exhausted in the first few weeks.

Can definitely emphasis!! Although I am the other way round, can handle the mum one on ones but find the group get togethers so much harder. My little one also just started in reception and the playdates where the mum comes over too really aren’t that bad.. an hour is long enough and you don’t need lots in common to make small talk.. just chat kid stuff, how’s she enjoying school, what books do you read her, what films does she like, what’s her bedtime routine.. I have found mums tend to not mind discussing their kids with people they don’t know that well as it’s safe easy ground! And honestly it goes quick, you’ll probably spend half the time running up to your daughter’s room to see what the loud crashing noises are as her and her friend empty out every drawer and toy box going 😊
Good luck! X

Thanks @BabloHoney !

The group things I don't mind so much because there is less pressure to make conversation as there's always someone else that can pick up the slack if there's a lull in conversation.

The mums I am familiar with all have boys, which is fine DD is very friendly with the boys but being a girly girl she wants some girl friends too. She's expressed this many times but has yet to find her tribe. So when she does it'll be new mums. But I know I have to suck it up for her sake!

Another thought is to have a little activity you can all do together eg decorate biscuits.. more doing stuff, less pressure to make small talk. Plus the added bonus of biscuits 😂