Our summers get so busy! We love to find time for family time, friend time and lots of time outside. But I like to squeeze in a date or two with each of my kids over the summer, too. Sometimes we’re running around so much I’m not able to slow down and connect with my kids. So I make it a point to find a little time to spend one-on-one with each kid.
I love being able to let each child choose what they want to do (within reason–and sometimes with a little guidance). Each of my children have different ideas of their perfect date and I have a blast with all of them! Here are a few ideas of recent dates we’ve done. Note: this is not a sponsored post. Any links are of places we’ve visited and enjoyed.
A play. My daughter and I recently went out to lunch and a play. She was able to see a few of her friends perform in a Stage GR show. I was so impressed at the talent and amazing performance! We’ve also gone to shows through the visiting Broadway series (like The Lion King) and at the Civic Theatre. Even if you don’t have a theatre in your town, we’ve even done dates to high school performances. We try to squeeze in a date when we can!
Saying yes. I recently took my son on a date to Build A Bear (I took advantage of a great coupon) and afterward I rented one of those motorized animals that he rode around the mall. We also went out for dessert before dinner. These are the types of things I always say no to. But since this was a special date, we bent the typical rules. And, I have to admit, he had a blast riding around the mall on that hippo (and I was laughing hysterically as well).
Activities. Some things we love to do on our dates are bowling, playing arcade games, dinner, mini golf, petting animals at a pet store adoption event or going to a local skate park. I like to look through coupon books or use Groupon to keep things inexpensive.
Late night date night. This is especially great if you don’t have someone to watch you other kids. Every once in a while I let one child stay up past bedtime to spend a little one-on-one time together. It’s amazing what just 30 minutes of undivided attention can do for a child! During this time, we might play a game, have a treat, read or make a craft together or just chat. This is a great cost-free, no babysitter needed option!