Be honest: Do you feel guilty to spend one-on-one time with your partner because you have children to take care of?

Your children are precious to you and they are your top priority. You want to be there for them and see to all their needs.

Being a parent is a gift and we are willing to give up even our leisure time for our kids.

But, taking some time out from your daily routine does not mean you are a lesser parent or that you are being selfish.

It means you are able to reenergise and refocus on the numerous responsibilities you have to fulfil.

And as a result, become a happier, content and loving couple and parents.

Because here’s the truth:

Spending quality time together is a reminder that you belong to each other as man and woman no matter what stage of life you’re at.

So how do you ensure you’re getting enough of me-time with your partner? Try date nights.

Date nights are an inexpensive and simple way to nourish your romantic relationship.

After all, it’s all about being with each other without interruption, without concerning yourselves about the work, house and children.

Spending guilt-free quality time together is to keep that connection and passion alive.

So, here is what you can do.

Make a list of things you both enjoy and schedule at least one date night in a month.

Just like everything else, note this down in your family calendar. Make a commitment to it. Treat it as you’d treat a dentist’s appointment.

If you are fortunate enough to have your children looked after, you can absolutely do anything.

But, if finding a reliable and trustworthy baby-sitter is an issue, you will be amazed to know there are still so many ways you can have those exclusive and intimate moments.

Here are some ideas for your Date Nights:

• Brew coffee and sit out in the backyard under the star lit sky. Grab a blanket if it’s chilly. Nothing can be more romantic than gazing up to the stars with your beloved partner.
• Watch episodes of your favourite TV show. Often we get onto the internet or catch up with washing or ironing after the kids have gone to bed. Instead, record your episodes and schedule a date night to watch them.
• Read a book together. My husband and I read a lot. A wonderful way of winding down after a busy day is having a nightcap and chatting about the books we are reading.
• Make plans for the week. Deciding what to cook each night can be frustrating. After dinner, say on a Monday night with the kids settled down, get your recipe books out and choose your meals for each night of the coming week. Be creative and experiment with some new and varied cuisines.
• Play games. Board games and playing cards are simple yet great fun. Choose a game that you both enjoy.
• Listen to music. Music is a great way to relax and bond. There are times you may prefer just to be together without doing any activity. Choose your favourite music, cuddle up or chat just to be in the moment.

Whatever you decide to do, call it a date night and treat it as if you were going out to a real date.

Then let the magic happen.

Image by James Wheeler www.souvenirpixels.com/photo-blog/uncountable-stars