a . What is planned ? b . Where will they be sleeping ? c . Who will be in the home ? d . Are there pets in the home ? e . What food will be served ?
3 . Talk about what to expect . a . Talk about inappropriate touching b . Teach them to say “ no ” if something doesn ’ t feel right . c . Talk about weapon safety – do not touch a weapon and if someone else in the house brings one out , leave immediately . d . Teach them to not take any medications that they aren ’ t familiar with and not to drink alcohol if it is offered or introduced .
4 . Help everyone get along . Talk to your child about compromise . If you are hosting , go out of your way to avoid conflict between the children , and try to make the other child comfortable .
Are you ready ?
Your child may be ready , but are you ? Many parents struggle with the question of whether they ’ re uneasy about their child ’ s safety , or they ’ re unable to face this next stage in their child ’ s life .
A parent ’ s top concern should be the safety and wellbeing of their child . If this means a no-sleepover rule , so be it . If this means strict rules around sleepovers , go for it . But if you ’ re considering allowing your child to go to one for the first time , try the following :
1 . Get personal with the friend ’ s parents . If you haven ’ t already , create a clear channel of communication with the parents . Even better , spend some time with them . Knowing their routines and values will give you an idea of what to expect . Find out if there are guns in the house , and if so , are they locked in a safe .
2 . Know who ’ s in the household . Perhaps the child ’ s parents are trustworthy , but who else will be around your child ? A full house may be a fun house , but older siblings or out-of-town guests may not align with what you ’ re familiar or comfortable with . Check the sex offender registry . Know if there
is a sex offender in the home or in one of the neighboring houses .
3 . Be clear on sleeping arrangements . Knowing how the night will unfold , and end , is important . Ask what dinner will be , what the activities will be , and make sure he or she is sleeping somewhere safe .
4 . Keep communicating . Stay in contact with the parents . Make sure they know you ’ re interested and available . You want to know they are making your child a priority and that they won ’ t force your child to stay in fear of disturbing you .
5 . Don ’ t be afraid to say no . Trust your gut . If you feel uneasy about any sleepover situation , always feel empowered to keep your kids at home . Some parents may pressure others to appease the wants of their own children . But only you know what ’ s best for your child . And that ’ s OK .
6 . Give your child a cell phone for the night . If your child can easily contact you , it may ease both of your minds . Make sure your child knows how to use it .
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