Micro-Dates With Kids: How to Build Strong Bonds With Weekly Together Time! Parenting Fatherhood

Search your weekly schedule for a natural opportunity to carve out regular micro-dates. I experimented with micro-dates last fall, and with all three of my children, I discovered that one-on-one time is exponentially rewarding. When we make time to deepen relationships with our children, we all feel more centered and joyful, every time.

Reliable time alone together gives your child the opportunity to ask big questions or unburden themselves of nagging worries. My daughter would often save up things she wanted to talk about for our weekly date. Don't stress about planning an expensive, glamorous outing. Build time into your schedule naturally. For example: 

• Make use of in-between time. Instead of running home during one child's practice, head to the library or to a local park.

• Make the most of errands. Add a sense of camaraderie, take away the gadgets and almost any outing can be enjoyable.

• DJ your drive time. Turn up the tunes and sing along together!

Whatever you do, make an effort to "notice" out loud and often, how much you enjoy your regular date. Everyone wants to feel valued.

Discover more tips to build strong bonds via DoingGoodTogether.org.