When a friend comes to your house, you are the host. You know how to be a good guest. Being a good host is the other side.
Key idea
A good host greets the guest at the door, lets the guest choose a game first, and walks them to the door at the end.
Why it works
The host's job is to make the guest feel welcome. When the guest has fun, they want to come back.
Before your friend comes, you can plan two or three games to offer. Then let your guest pick which one to play first.
Worked example: Let's practice
Sam's playdate at Ruby's house is over. What can Ruby do?
- The guest is leaving.
- Ruby walks Sam to the door.
- She says goodbye and thanks him for coming.
Answer: Ruby walks Sam to the door: “Thanks for coming!”
Common mistake
Keeping favorite toys to yourself, or playing alone with a new game. The host's job is to make the guest feel welcome.
For the grown-up. Help your child plan: choose a few games together, and put away any toy that is too special to share. Remind them before the doorbell rings: “Your friend gets to pick first.”