School friend play date etiquette

[lilacsky89]

I've invited a couple of my daughters school friends round to play for the morning over the summer holidays (5 years old). Both parents have said yes.

This is new to me as previously all play dates have been with mum friends I know.

Do you think they will want to stay for a cup of tea or is it more normal to drop and pick up later?

Also if they are picking up later I'll need to give them a time. How long do you usually do.. 2-3 hours? Maybe do the kids some lunch and they get picked up after?

Probably overthinking something very simple but just want to know what to expect 😂 thanks

Follow up text needed:
Hi again,
Looking forward to having (name) over next week.
Will she be fine being dropped off or will she want you to stay?
Either fine with me x

That puts ball firmly back in other mum's court, allowing her to drop and run but not making either of you look anti-social.

If they reply with "she'll be fine" - you can reply with Smashing, see you at eleven (or whenever). Pick up at (name your time).
if they say they are coming too - you can reply with Great. I'll get some chocolate muffins in. See you at...

Ah, you've invited two.
You can send the above twice or make it clear you've invited both in the same text. Might make it easier for them to decline having to stay.

Hi a and b
Looking forward to having c and d over next week. (DD's name) is really excited about seeing them. Will they both be fine being dropped off or will they want you to stay? Either fine with me x

When they reply tell them it's two hours and whatever you want.
e.g. Does 10.30-12.30 work for you both? I'll have fed them by half twelve or whatever YOU want to happen.

I'd maybe get the three of them to make and ice some cupcakes and make a plasticine animal. Invite mums in at 12.30 for a brew and cake or have kids ready with their goodies to leave.
Or 11-1.

If they decide to stay then I'd hope both do so less awkward for small talk. Then let the three girls play while you three have a brew/orange juice/croissants if you're pushing boat out x