Isn’t it about time you had an escape with your partner that’s without the kids? It may be hard to leave the family–especially the younger ones–for an overnight trip, but there’s nothing like a day or two away to get your groove back. If your inner-Stella is nervous about leaving the children behind for the first time, Madame Noire is here with tips to make your getaway great.
1. Make The Goodbyes Short And Sweet. As tempting as it may be to duck out of the house while the kids are distracted, imagine their shock when they turn around from watching “Dora” and you’re gone. The best tactic? Even if they are toddlers, explain that you’re going “bye bye” and will be back so soon. They’ll be sad, undeniably, but hopefully you’re leaving them with a friend or family-member that you feel completely comfortable holding down the fort. A quick hug and kiss….then head for this hills!
2. Keep It Local. Plan to go somewhere that you can drive and get to within two hours. That way you’ll be able to rush home in case of an emergency. Flying involves getting to the airport, the possibility of cancelled or delayed flights and the high last-minute ticket costs. Avoid that madness, and jump in the car– you’ll feel like your trip is starting immediately. Also, leave the car seats behind, the sitter may need them and you don’t need the reminder that you’ve left your little ones.
3. When In Doubt, Bribe. You want to go away and your kids to be happy, right? Buying a toy or DVD they’ve been longing for will take their mind off of you being gone and will give them an activity to take up their time. Bingo.
4. Bring Your Phone, But Leave It Alone. There’s no reason to totally shut out the rest of the world–remember to keep focused on your partner and work-related texts/emails to a minimum–but you’ll also need to be reachable. You can call Grandma to check in once you’ve arrived at your destination, but you don’t necessarily need to speak to the kids. Keep the phone contact to real emergencies and things will go smoother.
5. Make Sure Your Destination Is Kid-Free. If you’re going to be kid-free, go all the way to a sleek, exciting, adult-friendly spot. The goal is to relax and not be reminded that you abandoned your kids. Kidding. But you’ll enjoy your trip better without the screaming kids in the background of your romantic dinners.
