As parents of young kids, going out for date nights can be a monumental task. All the night feedings, diapers, and laundry can crowd your world so much that having a date night with your partner may seem like an unnecessary luxury. However, this does not mean that you shouldn’t try.

Admittedly, there are a lot of things that come in the way of getting out for a date night. Nonetheless, instead of focusing on the things that could go wrong, how about going the extra mile to ensure it goes right?

With all the emphasis being put on your baby, it can be easy to forget about your partner’s emotional needs. You might think that there will be time for that later, but if you do not keep reconnecting when the children are young, how do you think you are going to end up when they are grown? Love takes nurturing, after all.

In fact, experts say that couples who go out at least monthly are less likely to split up. These dates become even more crucial when you get kids. For starters, couples who enjoy regular date nights have fewer conflicts due to better communication. Date nights allow you to remain close while reminding you why you chose to be with that person.

The following are tips and ideas to consider when planning for a date night.

1. Find a Sitter You Can Trust

Most parents say that finding reliable care for their child is the most difficult part of planning a date. This is a legitimate concern, for obvious reasons.

If it is the first date night since you had the baby, then you will probably only be comfortable leaving the child with someone you trust, such as your mom or close relative.

If you do not have any relatives nearby or close friends who are available, it is fine to hire a sitter. When looking for help, the best way to go about it is to ask for recommendations from your friends. They probably know someone who knows a good sitter.

If you get one, consider planning the date somewhere close to home so you can get there in a short time in case of anything. Also, stick to things you can make a quick exit out of just in case.

And because one can never be too cautious,consider using hair drug test kit available at CVS to see if your child has come into contact with any drugs.

2. Plan Ahead for Feedings

If you are bottle-feeding, then ensure to leave the sitter with pumped breast milk or ample formula. Be sure to leave clear instructions on how it is warmed up, in addition to nipples and bottles that match.

If you are yet to introduce the bottle, you should try timing your date so that it falls between regular nursing sessions. You can also consider carrying a portable breast pump to your date to alleviate some of the pressure.

3. Lose the Guilt

It is common for first-time mothers to feel like bad moms for leaving their baby to go out on a date. However, you shouldn’t feel as if you are being selfish. You are, after all, only human and you need a break once in a while. That time away is essential since it recharges you, giving you more energy for your child.

Besides, your child is going to benefit immensely from having parents who have a strong emotional attachment with each other. It is a win-win-win for everyone involved.

4. Be Realistic

Your date night does not have to involve a four-course dinner. The aim is to be somewhere you feel comfortable without having to stress over every little detail. A walk in the park or catching a movie is just fine for the initial dates when the baby is still new.

The important thing here is spending time together, so do not fuss if it lacks a make-out session or scintillating conversation.

Date night is important for any type of couple. But for new parents, it is even more important because it allows them to reconnect after giving all their energy to their small blessing. It does not matter how basic the date is, the important thing is that you are bonding with the person you fell in love with.