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Do you think Date Night is important for you? Do you think Date Night is important for your kids? The answer to both questions is “Yes”.
And if you are a single Mom then Date Night can mean going out with a girlfriend. And if you are single Dad it can mean going out with friends to a pub.
Last night my wife and I went to the beach to walk along the water. Our little one was put to bed by his older brother. Even if he had been put to bed by a babysitter, I think the long-term benefits would have been worth it.When was the last time you had a date night? Does it feel like you barely know who your spouse is anymore? And the most important question is, ”Do you understand the value of date night, not for you and your wife but also for your kids?”
We can tell our children everything that is important. But, as the saying goes, actions speak louder than words. What lessons can your children learn from Date Night?
Lesson number one is that taking some time for themselves is very important. But when is the last time that you took time for yourself? And this is so critical. If you are constantly on the treadmill and you only take a break one week a year that you are on vacation, you will burn out. You know it. Is that what you want to show your children? Or do you want to show them a balanced life that integrates work, family and time for yourself? You get to choose what you show your kids.
Lesson number two is showing your kids the importance of nurturing relationships. If you are in sales, you know how important it is to nurture relationships. If you are a manager you know how important it is to nurture relationships. And – truth be told – if you are human you know how important it is to nurture relationships. Do you show your children nurturing relationships? Shouldn't you?
Going out on date night accomplishes both of these things and you get a date with your special someone. When your child complains that you are going out (without them) you can tell them that (a) you have to nurture your relationship with Daddy or Mommy and (b) you want to take some time to make yourself even better for tomorrow. You might use words like, “I want to have some special time with Mommy so that I can love her more than I already do. It is okay for Mommy and Daddy to have some time to ourselves, and you know what? Tomorrow I think I will love you more also!” Tell your child straight out why you are doing it and what the benefit will be to them.
So the next time you take time for yourself and your child complains, let the know the benefits to you and to them. They still may not like it, but they will begin to learn important life lessons.
