No playdates after reception year?

[ClaireRed]

So my DS seems to have good friends in school, been invited to lots of parties during this first year of school but so far no playdates? He's got 4 birthday parties over the summer and going to a summer scheme with a few from his class so he'll get to socialize but just feel bad we haven't gone on any playdates or been invited on any over the summer. So many of my friends with kids are different schools seem to have made mum friendships and got lots of little meet ups planned. I feel totally responsible as while i feel I'm friendly with the other parents I just haven't connected with any of them and dont have anyone to speak to from the class, feeling down for my little boy more than me

We're exactly the same. I think it depends on the dynamic of the group/class really. Some were at nursery together and have had intense friendships for a while so think they maybe meet up more. Im also not at school every day due to working so am not as in with the mums as others.

Do you have a class whatsapp? Maybe you could suggest a playdate if you have the parents number. Or while at one of the parties ask what their plans are over Summer and suggest a soft play or park date one week?

Have you initiated any play dates? People tend to reciprocate. It is easier if you can chat to the parents - if it’s an accompanied play date it’s nice to know you’ll get on with the parent, if it’s an unaccompanied one they’ll want to be reassured of who their kid is going to.

Have you got a week of term still? Plenty of time to approach a couple of parents and suggest meeting up.

Thanks, yes he went to the nursery attached but was separated from most of his friends into a different class. Im also not at the school a lot due to working so only see the mums briefly in the morning or at the parties, my DH will often go to the parties as we have a baby so it's easier but maybe ill try to go next one and chat about plans, just don't want to come across as too needy. Yes lots of the mums seem very friendly with each other, I know a few live in the same street. So hard as im off work one day a week and also weekends and DS asks why we don't meet up with anyone

Ime play dates are more likely to take off when the children are a bit older - yr 2/3? - and start to ask if friends can come over to play. Until then they are often based more around existing parental friendships.