Creating Date Night - Even With Children at Home

It's easy to slip into a monotonous routine once you have children. Just surviving day-to-day can seem like a chore, and romance, well, who has time for that? Getting out of the house and finding a good babysitter can get expensive, but your own home can be the oasis you need for a little fun and relaxation with your loved one. Taking a night off from the usual responsibilities, even if that means staying at home, is important not only to remain sane but also to demonstrate how much you love and appreciate one another. Taking that extra step in devising a date night, which includes setting aside a day for the both of you in advance, will help you maintain a fulfilling relationship in the long run.

Dress Up

Get dressed as if you're going out for a night on the town. Start by pulling out that evening dress from the back of the closet that you were saving for a special occasion and dress up-heels included.

Set the Mood

Change it up. Make sure all the children's toys are put away and turn off all halogen or fluorescent lights. Scatter some candles around the living room and kitchen.

Keep the Romance

Be positive. Give compliments. By no means discuss work, the children, playdates or any broken appliances. Nothing is more of a mood killer than "Can you take the trash out?" Focus on each other and strengthen the bond in your relationship.

Alter the Ambiance

Put on your favorite music and dance. Try a new style even if you don't know all the moves, like ballroom or tango. Or have a karaoke contest. The only rule is to have fun. Better yet, have a good mix of tunes ready to keep your blood moving and the energy flowing.

Go Scavenger Hunting

Scavenger hunts aren't just for kids. Hide clues around the house, one leading to the other, each with a riddle with details about your relationship, like how you first met, that your partner has to solve to win the grand prize: you.

Try Cooking Together

Pull out a new recipe you've both wanted to try. Maybe a new pasta dish or a rich dessert you don't usually indulge in. Making a meal together that the two of you love can be both romantic and relaxing, and there's no pressure to finish it quickly.

Watch an Old Flick

Unwind by watching the first movie you saw together. Spread out on a blanket in front of the television with a luxurious dessert like chocolate cake, strawberries and perhaps a bottle of wine while you watch the film.

Massage Night

As a final cap to a wonderful date night, give each other a massage, focusing on the pressure points on the feet or the back. A good massage will deepen the connection between the two of you. Try a new technique like a scalp massage and see how grateful you are you decided to stay home.