Make it a Date

Published On: March 17, 20151.6 min read

Sometimes it’s easy to get lost in the parenting trenches—children tend to be all consuming. As a result, we often forget being a parent isn’t just about feeding, clothing, and making sure homework gets done: it’s also about modeling healthy relationships. Your children need to feel secure. They need to know their parents (or parent) value and make time for each other.

If prioritizing one another is difficult, set date nights—sans children—to reconnect. Find out what works best for you and your family, whether it’s a weekly or monthly event, and check the calendar. Once you’ve found a day (or night) that’s free from school events, family gatherings, meetings, or extracurricular commitments, schedule a sitter and vow to keep that timeslot free.

Choose something you will both enjoy, or alternate every date night doing something that appeals to the other person. Dedicate your efforts to enjoying your time and learning about your partner. Your date nights can be elaborate or simple, fancy or frugal—it’s just important you use the time to decompress and enjoy your partner. Avoid talking about your kids or your budget, or at least set aside a half an hour at the end of your date to tackle any issues. Smile, laugh, and strengthen your relationship. The stronger your bond, the stronger your family will be as a whole.

Need a few ideas to get you started?

  • Plan a trip together
  • Dinner and a movie
  • Picnic
  • Double date
  • Hit up an arcade with a roll of quarters
  • Take classes together (e.g., cooking, painting, or dancing)
  • Visit a comedy club
  • Tour a brewery or winery
  • Go to a karaoke bar
  • Have coffee at the local bookstore
  • Visit a museum
  • Create a bucket list, and cross off one item on every date
  • Patronize an art gallery
  • Sign up for a couples’ massage
  • Enjoy a local carnival

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