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Your Child's Overnight Invitation
He's Ready, Are You? By Sharon Waldrop
You may realize that your child is ready to take a leap into the arena of independence when he is invited to spend the night at a friend's house and is eager to go.
Before you say "yes" to an invitation, there are two questions to ask yourself: Is your child ready to spend the night away from home? And are you prepared to trust another family with your child?
Spending the night at a friend's house can be an exciting experience for a child. Giggles after dark, two pillows side-by-side and breakfast for two in the morning provides around-the-clock fun. Parents also can appreciate the fact that a sleepover doesn't attack the pocketbook.
Other things to pack are pajamas, outfit for the next day, clean underwear and socks, toothbrush, toothpaste and comb. If you decide to take advantage of the situation and go out on a date with your spouse or significant other, provide the parents with a phone number where you can be reached in the event of an emergency.
If your child has any food allergies or needs for medication, be sure the other parent is aware of them. It is a good idea to put such instructions in writing.
Inquire about a good time to call and say "goodnight" to your child. Even if the children stay up late, it may not be appropriate to call the house late at night unless there is an emergency.
Don't be hesitant about expressing a desired bedtime for your child if you feel the need to do so. Some children need more sleep than others, and the overnight experience will not be pleasant for you or your child if somebody is tired and cranky the next day.