By the time your little one turns two, they’re starting to notice their pint-sized peers — and might even enjoy spending time with them. While toddlers are still learning how to play together (sharing is hard!), it’s a great time to introduce playdates. Having them try socialising early is important for future development!
Pro tip: Keep it small. A duo of toddlers is just the right size for early socialising — fewer hands, fewer squabbles, and more chances to practice those early social skills like turn-taking and parallel play.
Playdate Ideas That Are Fun for Toddlers (and You!)
1. Dress-Up Time
Got a basket of old hats, scarves, and superhero capes? Perfect.
Toddlers love role play — it encourages imagination and helps them explore feelings and ideas in a safe, silly way.
Let them become dinosaurs, doctors, or dancing butterflies. The possibilities (and giggles) are endless.
2. Garden Splash Party
If the sun is out and you have the space, bring out the paddling pool or a few buckets of water and let the splashing begin!
Add some cups, spoons, and plastic toys for extra fun.
Thinking of going all in with a water fight? Amazing! Just make sure to give the other parent a heads-up so they can pack a change of clothes (and maybe a towel or two).
🛑 Always supervise little ones around water, even shallow pools.
3. DIY Playdough Magic
Make your own playdough together and turn it into a full sensory experience! Add:
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A dash of cinnamon or lavender for scent,
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Edible ingredients (like oats or mashed banana) if you’re worried about nibblers,
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Some cookie cutters, rolling pins, and toys to squish.
It’s calming, creative, and surprisingly tidy when you use a tray or mat.
4. Mini Chefs in the Kitchen
Whip up some simple baking or snack prep:
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Decorate biscuits or rice cakes
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Stir together a toddler-friendly trail mix
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Make fruity ice lollies or banana "pops"
Not only is it a fun shared task, but you’re sneakily teaching teamwork, measuring, and turn-taking too.
Bonus: A Little Grown-Up Time for You
Let’s be honest — playdates aren’t just for the kids. Having another parent around can be a lifeline. You might get a full cup of tea, a proper chat, or at the very least, a shared laugh over the chaos of toddlerhood.
So, embrace the mess, enjoy the mayhem, and remember — playdates are practice grounds for friendship, both for little ones and their grown-ups.
