Q
At what age should children be allowed to go to sleepovers?
A
You have to trust that the "sleepover parents" will be responsible and sensitive caretakers. This should be the governing factor in deciding whether a child is ready and should participate in a sleepover.
Be aware that younger kids may become anxious and scared as bedtime approaches on their first sleepover. Both sets of parents should not be surprised nor should they,in any way,embarrass the anxious child if she decides she wants to go home. This is not an "ordeal" that has to be "passed" once the child commits to the sleepover. Separation anxiety and many childhood fears connected to it under these circumstances should be respected. There's always another night to try again.