When COVID-19 lockdown hit my husband and I got creative and decided to have a “date” in our car, enjoying takeout and each other’s company. When we shared this experience with our children, they were captivated by the idea and eagerly expressed a desire to have similar outings. This is how Kids Date Day was born.

During lockdown, we got dressed up in our Sunday best, ordered takeout and sat in the car eating, bonding and laughing together. It was such a success that the kids wanted to do it again.

Once a month, one of us takes one of our children on a special “date.” These outings typically involve either lunch or dinner, and we alternate which parent accompanies each child each time. We select a general area to visit, and the kids get to choose the restaurant. This gives them a sense of involvement and excitement, as they look forward to trying new places or revisiting their favourites, like Glenelg Beach’s Doughballs.

Afterwards, we enjoy various activities, from shopping, park visits, and arcades to movies, shows, and more. We’ve created many wonderful memories filled with laughter and quality time together. We even had a “Yes Day,” which you can read about here.

The benefits of these date days extend beyond just enjoying a delicious meal together. They provide a unique opportunity for each child to spend one-on-one time with a parent, fostering deeper connections and open communication. These moments allow us to listen to our children’s thoughts, dreams, and concerns, building trust and understanding.

Furthermore, these dates have become a valuable way for our children to practise decision-making skills. From choosing the restaurant to deciding on activities, they learn to express their preferences and make choices that affect the experience. This empowerment helps them gain confidence and independence.

Our family tradition of date days with Mum or Dad has brought us closer together, creating lasting memories and strengthening our bonds. It’s a reminder of the importance of making time for each other and serves as a model for our children to value and nurture relationships. Whether we’re enjoying a meal in a car park with music playing or exploring new places, these simple moments have become a cherished part of our family life.

As my children grow into teenagers and eventually adults, I plan to continue these date days. I believe it’s important to maintain this tradition to strengthen our connection, spend quality time together, and simply enjoy each other’s company. These moments are precious and help us stay close, no matter how much life changes.

Leave a comment below sharing where you’ll be taking your child for a date day. Let’s share these wonderful ideas and inspire each other!