🎉 Top 10 Things to Have for a Kids' Playdate

Playdates are magical—a time for little ones to explore, imagine, and build social skills while parents relax and connect. But to host a smooth, enjoyable playdate that children remember fondly, a bit of thoughtful preparation goes a long way. Below are the Top 10 essentials you'll want to set up for a successful, engaging, and safe event.

1. Snacks

#snacks #kids #playdate

Why It’s a Must

Little tummies get hungry fast—especially when kids are busy running, crafting, or playing. Having kid-friendly snacks prevents meltdowns and keeps energy high.

Smart Snack Ideas

• Mini whole-wheat sandwiches (peanut butter & banana, turkey & cheese)

• Veggie cups with hummus or ranch

• Fresh fruit slices (apple, berries, grapes)

• Pretzels, cheese cubes, or crackers

• Kiddy portion snacks like yogurt tubes or granola bars

Helpful Tips

• Choose mostly healthy options with occasional sweet treats

• Use kid-size plates and cups

• Be allergy-aware—check with parents in advance

• Provide water, milk boxes, or diluted juices

2. Craft Supplies

#crafts #kids #playdate

Why Crafts Spark Creativity

Art projects keep kids engaged, ignite imagination, and offer personalized keepsakes to take home.

Top Supplies

• Washable markers, colored pencils, crayons

• Construction paper, glue sticks, safety scissors

• Stickers, foam shapes, googly eyes

• Yarn, pom-poms, and mini clothespins

• Large craft surface to contain mess

Pro Tips

• Stick to non-toxic, washable materials

• Use art smocks or old tees to prevent stains

• Offer examples but allow open-ended creativity

• Create a gallery wall for dry artwork—kids love seeing their work displayed

3. Board Games

#boardgames #kids #playdate

Why Games Build Connections

Games teach sharing, cooperation, and patience—and are a great option for indoor fun or when snacks break the action.

Great Picks by Age

• Toddlers: Candy Land, Memory, First Orchard

• Preschoolers/Kindergarten: Zingo, Spot It Junior, Connect 4

• Older Kids: Uno, Jenga, Loopin’ Louie

Organizer Tips

• Read rules ahead (to guide early on)

• Focus on 1–2 simple games to avoid overwhelm

• Have duplicate sets for larger groups

4. Bubble Solution

#bubbles #outdoorplay #playdate

Why Bubbles Are Magical

Bubbles foster outdoor delight—chasing, popping, giggling—without needing much skill or supervision.

Bubble Play Essentials

• Refillable bubble bottles (bring multiple)

• Assorted wands—basic rings, bubble guns, bubble hoops

Pro Tips

• Bring drop cloth or towels to mop slippery puddles

• Place wet-resistance markers on the ground to avoid falls

• Try nighttime bubble play with glow sticks for bubble magic

5. Toys for Outdoor Play

#outdoorplay #kids #playdate

Why Outside is Better

Fresh air bolsters mood and fun. Having structured wares adds variety while keeping kids active.

Awesome Toy Choices

• Classic balls—soccer, kickball, beach ball

• Frisbee and flying discs

• Hula hoops and jump ropes

• Sidewalk chalk for artistic fun

Pro Tips

• Choose unbreakable outdoor toys

• Keep a shade area for sun breaks

• Add climbing options like ladders or slides, if available

6. Water Toys

#watertoys #outdoorplay #playdate

Because Water = Wow

Summer playdates call for splashy, cooling fun. Even minimal water tables or spray toys can delight.

Water Play Favorites

• Kiddie pool or splash pad

• Water table with accessories and funnels

• Spray bottle or squirt toys

• Beach toys: buckets, shovels, sand molds

Parent Tips

• Keep towels nearby

• Provide sunscreen & cover-ups

• Monitor water: refresh frequently to avoid bacteria

7. Playdough

#playdough #crafts #kids

Why It’s Brilliant

Playdough gives sensory focus, promotes fine motor skills, and lasts across multiple playdates.

Supply Checklist

• Store-bought or homemade plain dough

• Add-ins: googly eyes, cookie cutters, pipe cleaners, rolling pins

Care Tips

• Teach kids clean hands only

• Store dough in sealed bags between use

• Use baking mat or wax paper under dough

8. Music Instruments

#music #kids #playdate

Why Music Sparks Joy

Making music is fun and expressive. Even simple instruments foster group participation and creativity.

Simple Instruments to Have

• Small tambourines and maracas

• Wooden rhythm sticks or hand drums

• Mini keyboards or ukuleles (optional for older kids)

Pro Tips

• Encourage volume control—soft vs. loud

• Pair music with movement games ("freeze dance," follow-the-conductor)

• Clean shared pieces regularly

9. Party Decorations

#decorations #kids #playdate

Because Atmosphere Matters

A little flair makes the day feel special—without breaking the bank.

Simple Decorating Ideas

• Colored bunting and banners

• Balloon garlands or clusters

• Themed table covers

• Fun cups and paper plates

DIY Touches

• Photo banner of your little guests

• Theme prints (dinosaurs, princesses, space)

• Self-made cupcake toppers or straw flags

10. Picnic Blanket

#blanket #playdate #kids

Why It’s Practical

A picnic blanket creates a clean, comfortable space for moms, snacks, crafts, or game breaks—ideal for indoor or outdoor.

Blanket Features

• Waterproof/insulated backing

• Soft top with cozy surface

• Big enough for crafts & multiple kids

Use It For

• Base for food and crafts (placed under snacks table)

• A cozy rest area when kids are tired

• A quiet zone decorated with cushions and books

🗓️ Sample 3-Hour Playdate Schedule

🎯 Parent Tips for Success

1. Safety first
   Use outlet covers, lock gates, water only a few inches deep.

2. Create smaller zones
   Offer options—craft, splash, snack, chill—so energy is managed.

3. Have an adult helper
   Split craft and outdoor supervision between two adults.

4. Be allergy alert
   Post snack options and check for allergies ahead of time (e.g. nut-free).

5. Prep clean-up kit
   Keep wipes, disinfectant, paper towels, bags, stain stick handy.

6. Fringe time
   Let kids make art as their take-home gift while waiting to be picked up.

✅ Why These 10 Essentials Matter

🎉 Final Takeaway

A well-equipped playdate ensures joy, energy, and focus—when kids have snacks to fuel them, creative spaces to explore, and areas to unwind, everyone leaves happy. With the right mix of healthy snacks, engaging crafts, outdoor flair, splashy fun, and comforting spots, you’ll host a day kids and parents alike will treasure—and lots of selfies and laughs too!

Let the playdate magic begin!