Playdates is one way to encourage social interaction in children. — Positive Parenting
THE Covid-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way we approach social interactions and parenting, including the way our children socialise with their peers.
Playdates, where parents arrange their children to meet and play together, is one way to encourage social interaction in children.
Unfortunately, for a few years, the pandemic and lockdowns prevented children from having playdates, and the lack of interaction with their peers was a concern among parents.
Now, as we move forward post-pandemic, parents have started planning playdates again.
However, as we have learned during the pandemic, it is better to be safe than sorry. Parents have to remain vigilant, not just against Covid-19, but also other infections like influenza, hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
In fact, Covid-19 is still considered a threat as it can mutate into new variants of concern.
Hence, it is still important that parents continue to maintain safety measures during playdates by reinforcing the basics such as hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
Here are some aspects that parents need to consider or implement during playdates or sleepovers.
Hand hygiene
Hand hygiene has always been important, but its significance grew even stronger during the pandemic. Before organising a playdate, it is crucial to educate both your child and their playmates about proper hand hygiene.
Teach them to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially upon arrival, before and after using the toilet, before eating, and before leaving for home. If soap and water are not available, a hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol is a suitable alternative. Encourage frequent handwashing throughout the playdate to reduce the risk of spreading germs.
Respiratory etiquette
Children often forget about respiratory etiquette, such as covering their mouths and noses when they cough or sneeze. As a parent, it is crucial to reinforce these habits during playdates. Teach your children to use their elbow or a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and to dispose of the tissue immediately.
Remind them not to touch their faces, particularly their eyes, nose, and mouth, to minimise the risk of transmitting germs. Encourage open communication with the other children’s parents, ensuring they are also reinforcing these practices at home.
Planning a safe playdate
To plan a safe playdate, there are additional factors to consider beyond hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette:
Communication: Before organising a playdate, have an open and honest conversation with the other children’s parents. Discuss concerns, expectations and the safety measures you both intend to follow. Mutual understanding and cooperation are crucial for a successful and safe playdate.
If you are unwell, skip it: If you or your child are not feeling well, let the other parents know and do not go to the playdate. If you are the organiser, you may have to postpone the playdate until everyone is healthy. Be responsible and stop the infection from spreading to others.
Keep it small and short: Consider keeping playdates limited to a small group of children. Smaller groups allow for better control and supervision, making it easier to enforce safety measures effectively. The duration should also be kept short – a social session lasting one to two hours is enough for your toddlers and pre-schoolers.
Enjoy the outdoor: Opting for outdoor activities whenever possible is a wise choice, as fresh air and open spaces help reduce the risk of transmission. Engage in activities like picnics, nature walks, or trips to the park, where children can maintain physical distancing more easily.
Sanitise toys and surfaces: Before and after playdates, clean and sanitise toys, games and high-touch surfaces to reduce the risk of contamination.
Set ground rules: Establish some ground rules, e.g. no hitting or biting, no name-calling, respect each other’s toys and belongings. Discuss with other parents regarding adult supervision, dietary guidelines, play space, etc.
Vaccination: Make sure your child’s vaccination is up-to-date according to the National Immunisation Programme (NIP). Other additional recommended vaccines are also available. Consult your child’s doctor to learn more.
Have fun! Don’t let the rules and restrictions hinder your child’s joy. The most important thing is to let them socialise and play with their friends.
As we transition into the post-Covid-19 era, it is vital to prioritise the safety and well-being of our children during playdates. By following these tips, we can ensure that our children can enjoy the benefits of social interactions while keeping their health a top priority.
Dr Husna Musa is a paediatrician and lecturer. This story also appears on Positive Parenting, an education initiative by the Malaysian Paediatric Association. For more articles and expert advice, check out mypositiveparenting.org.
