Even the most rock-solid couple relationships can be shaken up by the life-altering changes that go along with becoming parents. Adjusting to life after baby often leaves parents feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, even wondering what they could have been thinking when they talked about having a baby.
What they miss most are elements of their pre-baby lifestyle that they probably took for granted at the time. A recent study found, for example, that 69 per cent of Canadian parents of children under 3 miss spontaneity – the ability to pick-up and do whatever they want, whenever they want, with their partner – the most since baby’s arrival.1
They also long for couple time. When asked what they would do with 12-hours of uninterrupted time, an overwhelming 62 per cent of parents said they would indulge in an evening alone with their partner.2 What many parents don’t realize is making time for their partner is not only important for the health and success of their relationship, it is good for their baby as well. Because even the youngest child can sense tension between his or her parents (the result of too little time together and too many unresolved issues in their rapidly changing new-parent universe), it is important for parents to find ways to reconnect on an ongoing basis.
No Time, No Money? 4 Ways You Can Still Make Date Night Happen
While scheduling evenings out as a couple may be complicated and/or undesirable at this stage of parenthood (many new parents would rather spend time cocooning with their newborn), there are ways for parents to find ways to invest in their relationship from the comfort of home.
Invite a trusted friend or relative over to do some baby cuddling while you and your partner enjoy a candlelit dinner and a cuddle on the couch in another room. Often new parents are reluctant to leave the baby with a sitter. Spending the night in, knowing that your baby is safe and secure in the next room (and that she'll be brought to you for a feeding the moment she's hungry) allows you to relax and get reacquainted with your partner.
Minimizing the number of baby’s sleep interruptions is a great way for you and your partner to enjoy some downtime. An absorbent diaper that fits well not only helps keep babies dry and comfortable, it helps to prevent leakage which can disrupt sleep. A disposable diaper, like Pampers Baby Dry, has one extra layer of protection to help baby rest comfortably for up to 12 hours. If you use cloth diapers, use an insert or an extra layer for added overnight absorbency.
Ensure that baby's room is kept at a comfortable temperature (slightly cool is best). If your baby wakes up easily in the night, consider purchasing a sound machine to generate sleep-inducing sounds (womb sounds, white noise, water sounds).
The addition of baby is an exciting and memorable time for you and your partner. Making time for each other, will improve your life together as parents and partners. RELATED: Keeping Love Alive When You've Got Small Kids
1 Angus Reid/Pampers Survey, September 2009
2 Angus Reid/Pampers Survey, September 2009
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