This post goes out to all the new parents who have new little loves to add to their Valentine’s Day traditions. There is nothing sweeter than sharing your day with the tiny tots who make your life amazing. Seeing Amber and Duane adjusting to life as parents is always such a joy for me. Because they’ve embraced this new life, with all its challenges and blessings. And that’s really the thing – it’s all about balance. And so is being a young couple becoming new parents. When it comes to Valentine’s Day, don’t forget to make it special as both new parents and as the couple that started it all. Read on for some expert tips on how to make Valentine’s Day special when you’re a parent.
How to Make Valentine’s Day Special when You’re a Parent
Sometimes, it’s hard to find a romantic moment when you’re a parent or to feel appreciated by your significant other. So this Valentine’s Day, the makers of Mommy’s Time Out™ and Dad’s Day Off™ Wines have a few suggestions:
Book Your Sitter Early! Don’t wait for the last-minute to arrange a sitter if you’re planning a night out. They’re in high demand on Valentine’s Day. Having trouble sourcing a sitter? Set up a babysitting cooperative with other parents in your neighborhood. Each couple/parent can volunteer one evening a month to watch the kiddies…this “no cost” option ensures you get at least one night a month to keep the romance alive!
Stay In & Include the Kids. If you can’t manage a night without the kids, find ways to include them. Have them help to set a pretty table, make a special treat and create their own cards. This is a great time to show the kids how to express their love for each member of the family, as well as to set an example of how mom and dad love and appreciate one another.
Give Thoughtful Gifts. For busy parents, romance isn’t always about sex, so skip the negligee and give a gift they can really use! For Mom’s it might be a coupon for a foot rub or a relaxing day without the kids. For Dad, it might be a certificate for a day on a fishing boat with friends or taking the kids out so he can watch a game without any interruptions. Pair the gift with a bottle of Mommy’s Time Out Delicious Red or Dad’s Day Off Chianti!
Focus on Love! Valentine’s Day is all about love, so it’s a great time to teach your children about how love is important in their lives. The ancient Greeks had different words for different kinds of love. You may want to research and teach their meaning. Each can provide a wonderful lesson on love, especially when a child can relate it to people they know.