Playdate tips – how to support your toddler’s socialising

What to try

• Think about the toys that your toddler and their friends will have to play with, make sure there are plenty of similar toys as toddlers often don’t have the skills needed to share. 
• Put your toddler’s favourite toys away so these do not need to be shared with others.  
• Arrange play times with other children at a time when you know your toddler is likely to be well rested. If your toddler feels tired, they’ll be less able to regulate their emotions.  
• Manage your own expectations. There will be moments when your toddler might not seem to be getting along with their friend, or there is an upset over taking turns. This is brilliant learning for both the children and a chance to help them develop skills to make socialising easier in the future – so try not to feel panicked or upset when those moments happen.