Play Dates

I am not sure what the etiquette is for this....I work full time. I have a babysitter watch my kids. Occasionally my 5yo son and 7yo daughter get invited to play at their friends house who are the same age and also brother and sister.

They have gone a few times during the summer. I am not sure how to reciprocate. I don't really want the sitter to have them during the date. I feel 4 kids are a lot for the sitter. Also, lately our weekends have been packed. But I don't want them to feel like we are mooching....

How would you reciprocate?

Re: Play Dates

We often have kids over in the evening for a few hours. That way, I'm home from work and can help out DW with keeping an eye on everyone, especially if she runs out to pick up pizza for dinner or something.
We did this yesterday, actually. It was a Sunday, so it wasn't an issue with work, it just wound up that way, but playdates don't have to be in the mornings or afternoons.

Play Dates

You can always talk to the sitter and try to get her honest opinion. She may not mind it. Dd had had a few play dates with a friend's nanny when we were in a pinch and even though the kids were only 2 or 3 at the time she said it made things easier for her bc they occupied each other.

Play Dates

I would just be honest with the other parents and tell them because you are not home it's hard for you to have playdates at your house and you appreciate them having your kids over. Then when you are free on the weekend, plan a playdate at your house. I am home and have a bunch of playdates at my house because the other parents are working. I don't mind at all. Sometimes sending a plate of cookies over as a thank you is great too : ).

Re: Play Dates

I would be honest! I work a lot too and at my house is hard.

Re: Play Dates

Just as an aside, I find that when there is a play date it's easier because my kid had someone to hang with instead of annoying his little bro.