Attending a sleepover could increase a child’s risk of experiencing sexual abuse. The best people to determine whether a sleepover is suitable for their child are educated parents. By forbidding a sleepover, the risk can be completely eliminated. Or, there are a few things to consider if you decide to host sleepovers.
We have compiled a checklist of things to consider. Some won’t apply to your situation, but all of them have their place.
1. You know the other parents, have a relationship with them, and trust them
It may seem obvious, but before you let your child spend the night at someone else’s house, you’ll want to make sure you know who the adults are and that you can trust them with your child.
2. You know who else will be at the house where they are staying
Make sure you are comfortable with all the people your child will interact with, including older siblings, family friends, and an out-of-town uncle. If anything makes you uncomfortable, cancel or reschedule the sleepover.
3. Is this the right choice for your child?
Sleepovers aren’t appropriate for all kids. Some people find the idea of staying somewhere else unappealing, but they feel pressure from their friends to do so or they are unsure of what a sleepover entails. Make sure your child can handle it at their age, level of comfort, and maturity.
4. You have equipped your child with what to do if they want to leave
You have explained what a sleepover entails and some of the things they can anticipate. You have given them practice questions and role-played potential scenario situations. If necessary, you’ve thought of a code word your child can use to call you secretly without telling their friends. You’ve scheduled predetermined call times as well and, if necessary, a pick-up time.
Also see: How to reduce your child’s sense of entitlement
