7 Signs a Playdate Should End

1. You just saw the diamond necklace your husband gave you for your anniversary pass by on a child who isn't even yours.

2. You've convinced yourself it's not such a bad day to send the kids outside. After all, it isn't raining sideways or anything.

3. The pint-size opposing army is still on the attack, but you've run out of fort.

4. Your kid's friend has been over so long, you just scheduled her well visit at the pediatrician's office for Tuesday.

5. You and the dog are hiding in the basement.

6. One kid keeps asking for his goody bag.

7. Every time the doorbell on the dollhouse rings, you jump up to answer the front door, shouting, "Your mom's here!"

By Jen Singer, Parenting

Playdates....Are We Having Fun Yet?!

Your kid, a few of his friends, a bunch of toys... what could go wrong?

What's going on when...

The duct tape and rope are missing: The kids are attempting to affix either the wagon to a bicycle or a little brother to the couch.

You just heard a big THUD upstairs...and another one: Somebody's cape (aka your bath towel) didn't get enough air after the first leap off the bed.

...and now there's just silence: Don't ask.

Elmo's in the basement, singing to himself: Nobody could find the OFF button on the Sesame Street toy, so they left for another (quieter) floor in the house.

Something just crunched under your foot: The chips you bought for Moms' Movie Night are gone.

Your heirloom china platter has disappeared from the display case: Polly Pocket's got a brand-new flying saucer!

There's a snipping sound: Somebody's bangs are going to have more ups and downs than the S&P 500.

That doll has unusually long eyelashes: Have you seen your mascara lately?

Your bedsheets seem to be giggling: Don't get changed out of your clothes just yet.

Everyone's near tears: The playdate has ended -- and someone else's mom is going to host it next time.

By Jen Singer, Parenting