It should come as no big surprise that more and more parents are giving their children sleeping pills. Statistics show that this tendency has only doubled in the past seven years. So is there an easier way to get your kids to calm down and go to bed? One child therapist thinks that there is.

She stresses that the questions are useful for two reasons. The biggest is that it creates a sort of ritual for bedtime where you ease your children into the idea of being alone all night while simultaneously getting to know them better. The second reason is that it gives you dedicated time to learn about your child’s interests and problems.

The first question is to ask them about one thing that went well during their day. The second is to ask about something that was tricky, so you can teach them it’s okay to have difficult moments. The third is to ask them one thing they want you to know about their day so that they have dedicated time to tell you things they find important.

Many parents have shared how connected they feel to their children thanks to this ritual, having spent time learning about goals their children have that they didn’t know existed and noticing how much they enjoy it. So if your child struggles at bedtime, give this method a go and see what happens.

Exploring new avenues for intimacy and connection becomes a challenge when children enter the picture. For parents seeking to rekindle the spark of their relationship, at-home date nights present a practical yet romantic opportunity. Let’s dive into why these evenings are crucial for parental bonds and five ideas to easily create those special moments within the comfort of home.

Date nights serve as a gentle reminder that parents are individuals with needs extending beyond their roles in the family. Setting aside time exclusively for adult relationships is critical. These moments allow parents to regain a sense of self, prioritize emotional connections, and maintain strong bonds with their partners, which prove vital in preserving overall relationship health.

Moreover, scheduling intimate time can fortify a sense of unity and provide a platform for better communication. Embracing an opportunity for deeper emotional and romantic engagement can significantly enhance partnership contentment and resilience against daily parenting strains.

Logistical difficulties often accompany the planning of external date nights, especially with young ones in tow. Adapting to home routines may mean waiting until little ones are asleep or seizing daytime windows when they’re preoccupied. It’s a balancing act that prioritizes parental connection without overlooking family dynamics.

The first thing that parents can do is take advantage of flexible work schedules by having a meal together during the day while the kids are at school or otherwise occupied. Parents can also design a theme night at home with music, food, and movies that bring the essence of another culture or place right to their living room.

If parents are feeling more active or crafty, they can do a DIY project together like painting an accent wall or hanging pictures, which adds a productive element. Another good option is a games night. Select from board games, card games, video games, or couple-specific games to play for a fun and engaging night in.

Finally, if they’re feeling the need for a getaway, they can spend the evening dreaming and planning their next travel adventure, complete with thematic snacks or beverages to set the mood. Whether through nostalgic recollections or cooperative tasks, these date ideas should surely boost the romance level in the home, helping parents reconnect.