For years my husband and I have been taking our children out individually on what we call “date nights” Although, when my husband takes out my son, they forgo the term “date night” and lovingly call it “dude night”
It’s really a fitting term because what do you think of when you think of a date night? I think of quality time that’s free from distractions. And no one craves our one on one attention more than our children.
In creating a strong family dynamic, with God in the center, there must be shared time together.
Moses commanded Israel “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all of your soul and with all of your strength. These commandments that I give you today, are to be on your hearts. Talk of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Deuteronomy 6 :5-7
Moses’ timeless words should be the foundation for biblical spirituality in our homes.
A few years ago my daughter was asked to name her favorite recent trip. I thought she’d say our beach vacation over summer break or when we went on an overnight camping trip out of state. To my surprise she exclaimed, “the time daddy took me out to dinner and went the The Escape Room”
And that my friend, is the power of a parent-child date night .
This time allows our children to be known and seen, and trust me, no matter how much you may have just spent on a week long beach trip, date night will trump it, everytime.
These nights also facilitate conversation, and if you can easily talk about things now and keep communication open, you’ll be able to talk with them when it really counts.
It also should be noted that these outings certainly don’t have to be expensive or extravagant. All you need is a little intentionallity.
Even the simplest date will make the most lasting memory.
Here are a few ideas to make “date night” or “dude night” a sweet family tradition in your home.
- A Progressive Dinner: Start at one location for an appetizer. Try a different restaurant for dinner. And of course, try a favorite local place for dessert.
- Date night at home: Whether it’s watching a Redbox movie and making popcorn or digging out the board games and ordering take-out, a night at home can be the most fun. No matter their age, this option has always been a favorite at our house.
- Pinterest Project: What are your kids into? From Minecraft to dinosaurs, Unicorns to Hand Lettering, my children have been interested in just about everything! Look on Pinterest for a craft ideas based on their current interests. Then go to your local craft store to gather all the supplies needed and have a craft night! And as an added bonus, they’ll have a souvenir of your special time together.
- Take a Hike: Get outside! There’s nothing more special than getting some fresh air and exercise together. Pack a picnic and stop along to way to enjoy the scenery and a meal together.
- Breakfast date: Sneak out of the house together before evevryone else is awake. This will not only add a bit of excitement but you’d be surprised what a special breakfast together can do for their heart.
