Slumber parties, or sleepovers, are great opportunities for children to socialize outside of school, and they give parents a night off. The host parents, however, will face a few more responsibilities. Here's how to ensure everyone has a safe and fun overnight play date:
Keep activities and slumber separate
Slumber parties aren't just about sleep – they're an opportunity for the children to socialize, have fun and learn. Parenting magazine recommended that host parents arrange a number of different activities for the children to engage with. If possible, plan activities that the kids can work on as a group. But keep in mind that some children may not feel like participating in every activity. Set out a number of books, coloring sheets and solo activities that kids can delve into when they need a break from socializing.
Additionally, it's best to keep the entertainment separate from the sleeping room. By keeping these areas distinct, the children may find it easier to fall asleep once they've been removed from stimulating activities.
For frequent sleepovers, consider investing in a sleep solution such as a daybed with rolling trundle. The compact design of this piece allows for ample play room during the day while offering an additional bed at night. Parents should always operate the trundle for younger children.
Keep play and sleep areas separate for an easier time getting everyone to bed.Ensure all furniture is secure
Today's Parent magazine suggested that parents check in on their children every 15 to 30 minutes during a sleepover, but it's not possible to always monitor their behavior. One way to gain peace of mind is to secure all furniture in the child's room. By anchoring dressers and bookshelves, parents can reduce the risk of injury.
Failure to secure heavy furniture could result in a tipping accident. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, furniture tip-over incidents led to an estimated 30,700 emergency department visits between 2014 and 2016. Of that number, 52 percent involved children under 18 years.
The risk of tip-over increases when the furniture isn't properly weighted. For example, a bookshelf with more weight on higher shelves than on the lower is more likely to tip. Keep the majority of the weight low to provide further protection against tip-overs. Likewise, parents should talk with their children about the dangers of climbing on furniture.
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