Becoming parents changes a lot of things. You get busy with the kids, taking care of a seemingly always messy house, and scrambling with work and bills and everything else that falls on your plate. And soon, you and your partner may find yourself asking, “When was the last time we went on a date?” Getting out with little ones at home isn’t always an option. Childcare can be expensive and hard to find, and often the only time you have free together is late at night anyway. These at home date ideas are the perfect way to spend time as a couple and rekindle the romance of your pre-kids relationship.

The best part is that all of these ideas are relatively cheap and easy, and can be done while the kids are asleep down the hall. That means there is no excuse not to go for it!

At Home Date Ideas

Try these at home date ideas to get you and your partner spending more time connecting with each other without the hassle of going out – we all know that’s not easy with little ones at home.

Charcuterie and Wine

Nothing says date night like a charcuterie board and a bottle of wine. So what if it’s in your own kitchen! This is such an easy, fun way to spend an evening. Oh, and it’s delicious too.

The best part is that making your charcuterie board is half the fun. All you have to do is choose your favorite cheeses, meats, crackers, and any other little snacks that sound appealing, and then organize it all on a cute cutting board for maximum enjoyment. If you’re feeling extra fancy, add some chocolate-covered strawberries to the spread for additional sweetness.

Pour yourself a glass of wine (or a few), and you are ready for a night of romance and class.

Game Night

Playing games together is one of the best ways to have fun! There is something exciting about a little healthy competition and lots of laughter.

The options for what to game to play on your at home date are endless. There are so many great two-player games out there to enjoy. Whether you go for a classic like Twister or Jenga, or trying something new like Ticket to Ride (our personal fav), your evening is sure to be full of fun.

Cozy Up Outside

If you feel like you want to get away without actually going anywhere, simply step outside. Create a cozy set up with chairs to lounge in, and maybe light a fire in the fire pit to heat things up. And don’t forget the drinks!

You don’t have to have a big, luscious backyard to enjoy your outdoor space. Set up some chairs on your front porch, patio, or even in the driveway. Make whatever area you have work.

For extra romance and ambiance, hang a string of lights. If you get in the mindset that you are out on an evening date in the moonlight, you will enjoy the moment as though you are.

Make-Shift Movie Theater

When I think date night, my mind automatically goes to dinner and a movie. When you have kids, it’s definitely not as easy to head out to the theater to see the next big film. But what you can do is cuddle up on the couch to enjoy whatever flick sounds great at the moment. All while the kids sleep in the next room over.

Make it a full-on movie theater experience in your living room. Pop some popcorn, grab your favorite candies, and dim the lights. Silence your cellphone. Kick back, relax, and enjoy.

This is the kind of date night you can do on the regular. It is so easy, and so much fun when you plan it with intention.

Finance Date Night

My husband and I recently decided to start having monthly finance date nights. One night a month, we pour a bottle of wine, open up the laptop, and dive in to all things personal finance. Whether we are checking our purchases, making sure all bills have been paid, or making decisions on how to invest, we dedicate this time to all of the money talks.

I love how we hit two birds with one stone each time we sit down to do this. Not only are we taking care our our finances in a responsible, healthy way, but we are spending quality time together. We make it fun, and it is something we can actually look forward to.

Ice Cream Sundaes

Okay, so you might want to involve the kids in this one – that’s fine. But you don’t have to! Making ice cream sundaes together is the perfect activity for an at home date night.

Love and ice cream pair perfectly together. Both are sweet, and both will bring a smile to your face. Might as well enjoy them together. Break out the big bowls, scoop yourself your favorite flavors, and go crazy with your toppings. Make your ice cream sundaes everything you want them to be. And definitely, don’t forget the whipped cream and a cherry on top!

Indoor Camping

Going on a weekend camping trip together is one of the most relaxing, romantic things you could do. But with kids, this isn’t always possible. So why not just play pretend?

Put up a tent in the living room (or just lay some blankets on the floor) and set up camp. There is something weirdly thrilling about sleeping somewhere other than your bed in your own home. Make some s’mores in the microwave and tell scary stories (if that’s your thing) to get the whole camping feel.

This is something so, so easy, yet so incredibly fun! It’s like a little adventure in the comfort of your own home.

Connection Is Key

No matter how busy you get as parents, you and your partner need to make time for connection. These at home date ideas will help you spend quality time together without having to plan for a sitter or take time getting ready to go out. Easy, fun, and beneficial to your relationship – what more could you ask for?

If you are looking for other ways to connect with your partner, consider couples counseling. Your marriage doesn’t have to be verging on divorce to take advantage of the benefits of therapy. Anything that can improve your communication and strengthen your connection should be something to consider adding to your life.

What is your favorite at home date idea with your partner? Share in the comments below and help spread the love!