True or False:
Date nights are just a luxurious, good thing to do when you can find the time.
Keep this statement in mind when you read this article. You shall find the answer there. (You didn’t think I’d make it that easy for you, did you?)
Perhaps you miss the days where it was just you and your spouse, and all of your time now is spent dealing with the kids, 
or you need a break from all of the “doing”. We all deserve a break, even if it’s something a little different from your regular routine. I’m not going to bore you with too many facts about the benefits of “Date Nights”, especially since you just read five reasons about them in the article, but do keep in mind, date nights are not just a modern craze.
Don’t have too much time or money? No problem!
Remember, you don’t have to spend a ton of money on a date to have a good time! The point is that you are spending ANY, undivided time with your spouse. One of my favorite quotes of all time,
“The most precious gift we can offer others is our presence. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers.” -Thich Nhat Hanh
Try to keep these words in mind regarding your relationship too! A common idea (which I know I’m not alone with) is to get a movie (“On Demand” a
nd/or the Internet works good too), a bottle of wine, and after the kids are asleep, relax and watch the movie together. How simple is that? This works very well if you have a special needs child and finding someone to care for them is quite tricky. You’re still at home in case your child needs something, which leads to less stress for you (and you can be in your pajamas, not needing to care about how you look!). Have little ones and feel “zombified” throughout the day? Try these cheap date night ideas with small kids. -A walk together, at any time of the day (i.e., when you get a chance to “breath”), does it get any easier?
Not just for parents
Okay, so maybe some of the above is not possible with you. No worries! Date nights aren’t always just for couples. Spending enriched, devote family time is amazing! Whatever your situation may be, whether you’re a single parent, a parent of a special needs child, or your spouse is out of town and/or having a night out with their friends, kids can be included on a date too. My son loves what he calls, “date night with Mommy”, which consists of simply going out to eat (or take out), and then playing and doing anything silly together. Honestly, this designated, quality time with your children helps “erase” those moments when they have fully tested your patience. Need more ideas? Check out 35 family date night ideas from inspired by familia.
Some of you are avid planners and like to be organized, so getting tickets in advance to a special event is not a bad idea. A babysitter or a respite provider (-if your child has special needs), grandparents, nearby friends, and relatives to look after the kids are all great ideas if you are able to get out for a well-deserved break. Whatever your plans are, have a great date and have fun!
