The MomSpeak

Children love to have friends over to play, but parties and playdates can be a little intimidating for parents.  High energy kids running amuck in your home or yard, refereeing squabbles over toys, and the potential for meltdowns or tears can deter even the bravest soul.  And the cost of these parties, big and small, can quickly escalate.  But it need not be so — hosting three, and even more kids at your house can actually be fun, worry-free, and inexpensive.  

Watching your little one develop friendships is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the preschool years, for you and your child.  And before you know if your child will be the one introducing you to new friends, little and big ones, that you may well keep for a lifetime.  So enjoy this amazing process.  Go ahead and invite over some friends.  These great ideas will make sure you all have a wonderful time and that you don’t go broke in the process.




Paper Bag Pinatas 
Activity for 3-6 year olds

Give your child a small brown paper bag and let them decorate it how they want. This can be elaborately, with sequins and glitter, or simply, with crayons. Put a few pieces of candy in the bag and close by folding over the top. Punch two holes at the top and run enough yarn through the holes to be able to hang it from a high place and still be at children’s height to swing at.

Materials Needed: Small brown paper bags, candy, yarn, crayons, decorative materials of parent’s choice

Your clever little ones already figured out that the best fun of all is made with the stuff you have on hand. Or outside the front door. Or pretty much anywhere you look.

It’s you who occasionally benefits from a reminder.  No trips to the toy store or the art supply store or even any outing in the car or stroller necessary.  Here are some great ideas from the Savvy Source to make fun with what you’ve already got!