Playdates

Play dates: I have heard of them, I (think) I know what they are but I have not done them. Until now.

My son was invited to his first play date 2 months ago. One mother just asked me one Wednesday morning after we dropped off our sons to school, if I would like to come to her place for a play date. I hesitated because I thought about how my schedule would be disturbed if I accepted. However, I accepted. That afternoon, my son and I visited the lady and her son. We let the children play in the playroom while we chatted in the living room. Later the kids were treated to some snacks and played outside. At the end of the play date, both my son and I were happy after a nice afternoon. A few weeks later, I returned the favor by inviting the same lady and her son over.

 When I was living in the States, I never had play dates. I was not very close to the other mothers in my son's daycare. And I had only two friends who had children. But we never made any plans to have the children play together. We would just meet at somebody's house and let the kids run wild.

 Upon coming to Japan, I discovered the joys of play dates. Moreover, tthrough play dates I learned many things about other people but also about my son.
 First thing I observed by going to other people's place for play dates, is that they spend a lot of money on toys for their children. My son has a play area and two big boxes full of toys. But it is nothing compared to what his friends have. They have an entire room full of toys, and not only cheap stuff. I am always surprised at the extend of toys other kids have.
 The second thing I learned through play dates is that my son is well behaved. During my last play date, the son of my friend did not want to try the fruit salad I made. And once he did forced by his mother, he spit it. His mother was mortified. I am sure she thought him not to do that. But kids will be kids. I was not shocked or upset. I understood that children have their ways. However, I know that Little Prince would have never done such a thing. He was shocked at his friend's behavior. He even told me later that what his friend did was not nice. I am always sorry for being very harsh on my son. But that day I saw the fruits of my labor.
 The last thing I discovered is that play dates are more for mothers than children. During all my (few) play dates, I spend more time talking with the mothers than dealing with the children. We would let the children play together while we were having a nice chat. It is a good way to get to know people better.