What does the world of only being a parent look like? We treat our husbands like ‘dad’ and our wives like ‘mom’, sometimes ignoring the fact that we are MORE than just mom & dad. We are still the same people who once dated, fell in love, and had a spontaneous relationship where we were constantly investing in one another.
Karissa mentions you might have heard multiple times that continuing to date one another is a key factor in any relationship. This couldn’t be any more true after becoming a parent!
As new parents — we get sucked into the world of parenting. Only parenting.
Karissa shares as someone who experienced this first hand with her husband after their son was born. She says it was so imperative that they focus on reconnecting as partners again, not just parents.
When planning your date night, you’ll need to figure out a couple of things:
• Will date night take place during the day or at night?
• Will you need to find a sitter for a few hours?
• Do you have to prepare anything in advance? (decorations, cooking, etc.)
• What is the best day to have a date night for both to actually enjoy it?
Knowing these things will help you plan your date in advance so there’s no question about it happening. Because, as parents, sometimes we tend to be a little “lenient” when it comes to these types of things.
Karissa also shares at home date night ideas for parents:
Plan a game night
Pick up a variety of games (some strategic, some funny, or romantic, etc.) and bust out the games after the kids go to bed or during nap time!
Play a game of questions
This one is fun & easy. Simply look up a list of questions online (think along the lines of 21 questions or married couple questions) and take turns answering them with one another!
Cook a meal together
This one sounds boring, but it’s actually pretty fun! I mean, there’s a reason they have “cooking classes” for couples, right? Karissa says she and her husband usually end up competing as to who will finish prepping their items first, etc. She adds that it truly does turn out to be a fun way for them to spend some solo time with each other while preparing a delicious meal.
Work on a DIY project together
“I don’t know why, but there’s something about picking out paints, decorating a room or building something together that just feels like the ultimate couple thing to do,” she says.
Pick your favourite movies and have a movie night
This is a classic, and honestly, it’s a great way to relax after the little ones go to bed. Make some popcorn (or whatever snack is your favourite), get cozy and start the movie! If you’re an early bird, you could even start your morning by getting up before the kids to enjoy your cup of coffee together while watching a movie.
Take a bath together
This one will really kick up the romance a notch, but hey, that’s what you’re here for, right? Be sure to pour up a glass of wine or your favourite drink, add in some calm-scented bubbles, and enjoy your warm bath (and whatever else follows) with your partner!
Give each other a massage
Whether you’re both working parents, one works, one stays home – you both have tough jobs regardless. Not only does it feel nice to feel your partner’s touch, but it probably feels so relaxing to get a massage after a long day.
Get outside and watch the sunset together
Depending on what time your kids go to bed, you might be able to catch a gorgeous sunset with your partner! There’s always something special and mesmerising about snuggling up with your partner and watching the sun go down together.
“So, lay out a comfy blanket, bring some snacks or drinks, and just enjoy snuggling up together,” Karissa said.
Compiled by Phalimo Moeketsi Source: Mom after baby/Karissa
