As this year comes to a close, I am reminded of the most loving gift my friend Elizabeth gave to her son. She gave him a card and inside she wrote that she hoped they’d spend more time together in the coming year, and would like to go on a date with him (and leave little brother at home) once a month.
Elizabeth thought he might like the idea, but she had no idea how lifegiving it would be for both of them. With two young kids and a fulltime job, Elizabeth did her best to connect with her kids, but nothing compared to the intentional time together she and her son set aside every month for the entire year.
At 9 years old, it was hard to tell how much her son wanted to be around her, but the time spent together showed that he truly enjoyed her company, and brought the adage “kids spell love T-I-M-E” to life. With each month they planned a new experience and worked to create unique outings they both would love.
This idea inspired me so much that I wanted to share it with all of you! Essentially, if you’re wondering if your kids want to spend time with you – the answer is yes. And, having a set date to do so makes it easy on everyone. For example, designating the third Saturday of the month as “mom and son date night” avoids scheduling conflicts and makes it obvious to your child that you are making this time together a priority.
Here are a few ideas for dates with your child:
Get Active
If you have a sporty kiddo, try embracing his/her interest, and sign up for a race together! It will give you both something to look forward to, teach your child about goal setting, and help you bond during the race. Alternatively, try biking along the Virginia Capital Trail. You can set a goal for how long you’d like to ride (the whole thing? 10 miles? 2 miles?), or just head out and literally, enjoy the ride!
Give Back
For one of your planned outings, consider giving back to the community in some way. This could be volunteering at Shalom Farms, collecting books to donate to Little Free Libraries, or serving with Habitat for Humanity.
Learn & Laugh
Richmond has no shortage of museums for all ages! I find that museums like Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and Science Museum of Virginia are mutually appreciated by both parents and children, and open the door to conversation, laughter, and learning.
Live Performances
One of the privileges of older siblings is attending events that younger siblings aren’t yet ready for. It just might make your child feel even more special to know that Mom or Dad trusts them to behave during a show. While Broadway in Richmond shows are spectacular, there are other options with smaller, more intimate theaters like: Virginia Rep and Swift Creek Mill.
Try Something New
Our kids think of us as brave and fearless, so it is powerful for them to see us try something new, even if we do it nervously. Head out to Prince George and experience TreeTime Adventures, a ropes course in the tree canopy full of zip lines and obstacles.
Or, try camping! You don’t have to be ultra-outdoorsy to enjoy it; just have to want to try! A final idea: ice skate at Stony Point Fashion Park! Since I only do this about once a year, it seems new to me each time, and I’m always thankful for my daughter’s encouragement as I anxiously (and slowly) move around the rink.
As you finish up your holiday shopping, I hope this post reminds you that while it may not be written on their Wish Lists, your children truly want to spend time with you. A one-on-one date a month is the perfect vessel for bonding with your child throughout the year.
Want more ideas for ways to connect with your kiddos?! Search our calendar!
