Letting your child take part in a sleepover: for or against?

The first invitation to a sleepover is often a small event in a child's life... and a big question mark for parents. Between the desire to please and legitimate concerns (sleep, safety, hygiene, autonomy...), it's normal to hesitate. So, should you say yes or no? How can we ensure that everything goes smoothly? And from what age onwards can this step be considered? Let's take a look at the advantages, the precautions to be taken and the possible alternatives to ensure that parents and children sleep (almost) soundly.

Taking part in a sleepover is a child's first experience of a night out without his or her usual points of reference. For the child, it's a gentle way of learning to manage without Mum and Dad, and of gaining self-confidence, while remaining in a secure environment. They have to think about their belongings, respect different rules, and sometimes face a little evening anxiety. This kind of moment encourages responsibility and boosts self-confidence, provided the child feels ready for it.

Sleepovers are also moments of complicity and sharing. They enable children to strengthen their ties with friends outside the school environment. Children can forge deeper bonds, get to know their peers better and experience moments of complicity outside school. These social interactions, in a freer environment, help to strengthen children's interpersonal skills: sharing, listening, cooperating... all essential ingredients for their development. So many new memories to create.

There's nothing like a living room transformed into a makeshift camp or a make-up session with friends to awaken the imagination! During a sleepover, children give free rein to their creativity. They invent stories, create games and exchange secrets. A bit of playful, organic make-up can even be part of the evening ritual! For this, the make-up range is a must with its varnish, its eye shadow, its glitter pencils and its Glitter powder. This is a colorful evening, preparing children to slip into the wonderful world of dreams. However, older children may prefer a "scare" evening: they'll enjoy our disguise range to dress up and play scare tactics. There's a style for everyone!

Not all children are ready at the same time. Before the age of 6 or 7, sleeping elsewhere can be stressful, and even a source of tears at nightfall. If your child still has little peeing accidents during the night, this can make him feel uncomfortable. It's essential to assess your child's ability to remain calm without you, to express his needs (going to the bathroom, asking for help, saying he's scared...), and to follow simple instructions. If he's already spent a night with his grandparents or a cousin without worry, that's usually a good indicator. It's best to wait until the child is able to verbalize his needs and manage his emotions independently.

Before saying yes, a few checks are in order. Who's organizing? How many children are expected? Will a responsible adult be present and reachable throughout the evening? Has a clear framework been established? Are hygiene and safety rules respected (food, allergies, sleeping arrangements, etc.)? Don't hesitate to ask questions, talk to the host parents and explain to your child that he or she can call you at any time. A well-prepared little bag with pyjamas, comforter, toothbrush, and why not a lip balm colored to make himself or herself look beautiful, can also help reassure him or her.

Even the most motivated children can change their minds once the lights go out. There's nothing shameful about changing your mind, the important thing is to respect your own rhythm. A touch of the blues, an attack of shyness or a simple stomachache can cut the evening short. It's best to plan ahead: stay in touch, and agree a "plan B" with the hosts if necessary (pick him up, keep the phone on). Finally, remind your child that you're on hand to reassure him or her.

For children who are still young or uncomfortable with the idea of sleeping elsewhere, a "mini-sleepover" at home can act as a springboard. Inviting one or two friends over to watch a cartoon, do a craft or enjoy a make-up session until 9 p.m. is already a great adventure. It's a chance to have fun without the pressure of sleeping outside, and to experience the excitement of "almost being grown-up".

You don't have to leave the house to create a magical atmosphere! Set up a tent in the living room, have a picnic on a blanket, tell stories by torchlight... All these little rituals transform a classic evening into an unforgettable moment.

Before making any decisions, take the time to talk to your child. Does he really want to go, or does he feel group pressure? Does he have fears he doesn't dare express? Asking open-ended questions and listening without judgment will help you better understand your child's state of mind. It also shows him that you take his emotions into account and that you're there to support him. Whatever he decides, involving the child in the decision allows you to assess his level of desire and anxiety. It also encourages better communication around emotions.

Allowing a sleepover is neither an obligation, nor something you have to do at all costs. Every child is unique, and every family has its own rhythm. The most important thing is to respect the child's needs, while establishing a reassuring framework. If well prepared, this experience can be a great opportunity to grow and have fun.