Before You Send a Child to Play at a Friend's House, Consider These Tips

My friend and I have boys the same age, and we've been busy as of late negotiating turns at watching our kids. She has an opportunity to work some extra hours and I have two other kids with crazy summer schedules. For us, the swap-outs work well and our boys love spending time together. But, sending a child over to someone's house for an extended period of time or a playdate isn't always a fair deal for the family on the receiving end. Parents need extra food, must watch kids even more closely, and often serve as referee and counselor to kids who grow tired of one another. But there are ways to make sure your child isn't a burden, and the experience is a positive one all around!