Yes, you can make couples time

Have you ever heard the phrase, “You know you have children when having a 5 minute conversation takes all day.”  This is a joke of course, but is it?  We spend so much time on our children and what time we have left we spend on what?  Umm, that’s a great question and I think we should talk about it today.

How do you sneak in time as a couple to stay connected?

1. Get those’s kids to bed- Yes, set a realistic bedtime based on their age and give yourself enough time to connect.  One night a week, plan a date at home, eat after the kids go to bed and enjoy each other’s company.
2. Finish your conversation- How many times can you hear your name before you stop what you’re doing and run to your child?  If you’re in the middle of talking to your partner, let your child know that you love them and will be with them in a minute.  You might be surprised that what they needed help with they could do on their own.
3. Dates- This is hard as well because you’re already spending so much money on your children that you now want to spend money to get a babysitter and go out. Yes, do it, have a standing date whether it is 1x a month or 1x a week. Have something to look forward to.
4. Sleeping together- This seems like a given but it’s not.  Couples tend to sleep in separate bedrooms for various reasons.  The truth is that you need to stop it and get into bed together.  If it’s not possible, at least hop into bed together to have a nighttime ritual then part ways.
5. Your children sleeping with you- I’m going to say this with all the love in the world… your children don’t need to sleep with you to feel connected to you.  If there is a temporary problem, then deal with it but don’t make it a habit and don’t replace your partner with your child.
6. Spend time on yourself- To be a better parent and partner, you need to “be you” first and always.  Whatever this means to you, you do “you” and the rest will follow.

I’m sure that I missed a few so I’d love to hear what you do to stay connected.  Loving yourself and your partner doesn’t make you love your children any less.  Doing for your relationship shows your children how to have a loving relationship.  Let you do “you” and let them do “them” and come together when you’re all done!