When was the last time you went out on a date with your other half? Last week, last month, last year?!
Most of us know that spending quality time with our partners is really important for maintaining a strong relationship, but once kids come along date nights can be difficult to prioritise.
Research conducted by Legal & General shows that 36% of parents aged 18-44 spend quality time with their partners only once or twice a week, but it’s not from a lack of wanting. The same survey found that 67% of couples agree that spending time together is really important for their relationship, but other factors, like cost and tiredness, can get in the way of those special nights out.
Although most opt to go out for dinner or catch a film at the cinema, 39% of parents surveyed struggle to come up with ideas for things to do on a date night, meaning they often give up on the idea altogether. To combat this, Legal and General suggests giving micro-dating a go; taking short moments throughout the day for parents to show affection and appreciation to one another.
Some suggestions include:
• Grabbing a coffee and a cake whilst the kids run around at soft play
• Synchronising your lunch breaks to have a little catch up over Facetime
• Finding ten minutes in the evening to give each other a mini shoulder massage
• Playing together – a video game, a board game, a game of cards, whatever you enjoy
• Digging out your photo albums and reminiscing about the old days
• Making your favourite dinner together and enjoying it over a glass of wine
The concept of micro-dating comes down to recognising and appreciating those moments that already exist in a relationship and actively looking for opportunities to create more little moments like them.
From here, couples are encouraged to step things up a notch, by taking time out from regular routines to go out without the kids in tow. But, to do that, there is another hurdle that all parents must face, finding a trustworthy babysitter.
Grandparents are one of the top candidates to step in and look after the little ones but, these days, we’re less likely to live around the corner from our extended family, so what do you do if they’re not around? Thankfully, there are now apps and websites available such as Bubble, which allow parents to find verified babysitters who have undergone an online background check. These services include reviews from other parents, so Mums and Dads can enjoy their night out together without worrying about their little ones.
Not keen on the app idea? There are also local babysitting groups on Facebook and you can’t beat a good old word of mouth referral.
If all else fails, spend a great date night together at home with a box set and a takeaway.
After all, we all need a bit of a break every now and then.
