I think we all know by now how important date nights are for couples at any stage in their relationship, but it took having a child for me to realize just how much my relationship’s survival depended on it. Date nights are not just a buzzword or some overused phrase. It’s serious business. Without it, we can damage intimacy in our relationships, disconnect, and drift apart. But, now that we’re parents date nights are not as easy as they once were. Busy or not, it’s imperative that we make time for each other. So here are some ideas to tip-toe back into regular date nights.
Try dates during the day.
Adjusting date nights to dates during the day usually work best for parents especially those with younger children. There are bedtime routines to consider and so having a quick date during the morning or afternoon can be a better option. Try grabbing coffee together or a quick breakfast nearby. In fact, getting breakfast was the first date my husband and I had after becoming parents. We were able to spend time together and make it back in time for our daughter’s nap so that our whole day wasn’t thrown off. Another great option is grabbing lunch together once in a while if you both have lunch breaks at work that can accommodate a quick date.
Try a date night at home.
There are so many ways to make the most of your time together once your kids are asleep. My husband and I tried a date night subscription box. There are so many options and the above picture is one that we tried a while back. It comes with everything you need to enjoy a date night at home. Some come with activities, games, or like the one above, a spa night. I recommend this for couples who are open to trying something new because most of these boxes are a surprise and you don’t know what you’re getting ahead of time. If that’s not your thing how about revving up your Netflix and Chill. Make it more special. Prepare snacks, a nice meal, or desserts ahead of time. Light candles and make it feel special instead of the basic Netflix experience. Sometimes just making an effort and switching things up does the trick. You could also play classic games together and get competitive.
Take a class together.
Look for classes that work into your schedule and are nearby. You can take a cooking class, yoga class, or if you’re feeling adventurous a dance class. Getting out of your routine and comfort zone together can be a great way to reconnect. You can shop for various deals with apps like Groupon.
Double date and a play date:
If you’re lucky enough to have friends who also have children, plan a group activity. It may not feel like a real date with your spouse but having another couple around with children to help entertain your little ones can give you two a chance to talk or enjoy an activity. Sometimes just hanging out at home does the trick. You both get a chance to talk to another couple and each other while your kids are busy and having fun.
Play hookie.
If you’re able to use a personal day, try working out a day you both can take off of work just to relax together. Another alternative, some parents have mentioned that they sometimes have days off from work because of a holiday yet their daycare center is still open. This would be a great time to just take some time for each other or even half of that day. This isn’t something you can always do, but if you can, take advantage of it.
Remember, dates are going to be different when you become parents. The key is to adjust instead of trying to duplicate date nights you had before you had children. Though things will get easier, the beginning is rough. Aim for what you can, but always try. You may not be able to have a date night every week but perhaps once a month. Or perhaps a date is just binging a show together while curled up on the couch. As long as you’re connecting, that’s all that matters.
What date ideas would you add to the list? Let us know!
lifeontheup.com 