I love the idea of dating my kids. Honestly it’s not something I do near enough, but find it to be a special time that allows them some one on one attention, that is so very important and rare in our hectic schedules. My goal is to try and schedule at least 1 one-on-one night/afternoon with each kiddo, each month. It doesn’t have to be elaborate and sometimes just grabbing a scoop of ice cream can help get you some quick quality time together. Here are some ideas for your next date with the tiny humans!
Coffee Date – head to your local coffee shop, grab you some caffeine (them too if they’re old enough) and a kids vanilla steamer and just talk.
Sporting Event – Whether it’s football, baseball or car racing, we have some great options for catching a game or event. This fall we’ll be catching our favorite football team, with a day of tailgating!
Catch a Movie – We love movies! To try something new, you can hit up the drive-in and play a little mini golf (2 birds with 1 stone!) If going to the movies doesn’t work, have an in night, rent a movie, hit the dollar store for some movie candy, pop some popcorn and snuggle up on the sofa.
Early Morning Outing – Head out early for a walk or hike while everyone else is still sleeping. If you get up early to exercise, or walk the dog, pick a day and take a tiny human with you. Weekends work well for this. It’s a quiet, peaceful time that allows you a great chance to chat and learn more about what’s going on in their day to day. Hit up a local farmers market or make a doughnut run, chat over breakfast and bring a dozen home for the late risers.
Favorite Restaurant – When we decide to eat out, it almost always comes down to a vote, you can’t please everyone all of the time, and someone is usually the odd man out, not happy with the majority. Give them the chance to choose the restaurant AND let them order dessert! You can also do an “In” night version and let them plan the menu, and you cook together at home.
Practice with Them – My daughters absolutely love when I come outside and play volleyball with them. Get some one on one time by taking your child to the batting cages, gym, pool, golf course.. etc. It’s a great way to get in a little extra practice time that can be fun, and good exercise.
Volunteer – One of the best ways you can spend quality time with someone is by volunteering your time and service. Teach your child the importance of giving back and set up a way that you can volunteer together or let your child pick something that is important to them. During the holidays maybe you can serve at a local soup kitchen, or donate warm clothes to a local homeless shelter. The local food bank has designated times for families to help pack sack lunches.
Do you have any favorite date ideas that you do with your children? How do you carve out special one on one time?
