Some of us have always been good with kids. You know, those people who can meet a kid make them laugh, and the next thing you know they’re the kid’s favorite person in the world?

For others, though, hanging out with kids is just a little outside of your comfort zone. Kids, and their questions & comments & sticky hands can be a handful. You might know the drill: you stop at your friends house to say hi and her kids coming running up to you, eager to talk someone. You suddenly you find yourself staring back at them, nothing to say, or maybe looking to your friend for help. When your vinas have kids and you don’t know how to interact with them, it can be a big problem.

Never fear, vinas! Next time you’re hanging out with your friend’s kids, try out these tips and you’ll be the kid-whisperer in no time.

ASK YOUR FRIEND WHAT THE KIDS LIKE

So this is a do-ahead task: learn about your vina’s kids from the source! She’ll love that you’re taking the effort to make the kids happy, and she’ll be glad to help. Armed with your new info, you know what conversation starters to entertain the kids with, whether it’s “Moana” or roller skating. Best part about kids? Once they really get talking, it’s hard to make them stop…

BE SILLY WITH THEM

Put on a talent show and be the judge (all 10s given, of course). Compare your best monster faces. Bring a bunch of coloring books and spend an afternoon coloring outside of the lines. Make jokes and laugh and play hide ‘n’ go seek– basically, be a kid again!

BRING THEM SOMETHING SPECIAL EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE

With mom’s permission, bring them something tiny and fun every once a while. Kids appreciate the smallest things–no need to go all out. Pick up a coloring book from the dollar section at Target, or bring a game your used to play as a kid. They’ll love it!

THAT’S ALL IT TAKES

Soon, you’ll realize that having a a vina in your life with kids is awesome. It’s all the fun of children in your life, but ten times less the responsibility if you’re not there yet yourself. Before you start get nervous to hang out the kids, just remember: they’re kids! If you’re kind, fun, and relaxed, they’re bound to love you.

What are your best tips for hanging out with kids? Share below!

(Feature image via @camille.elena)