9 things to do together before baby arrives (from a mum on the other side)
Inevitably, life changes with the arrival of a new baby. And while there are so many fun adventures to be had as a family, there are some activities that are just a bit trickier to do with bub in tow.
These are some things to make the most of with your partner before life gets that little bit (or a lot!) crazier.
Go to the movies
In theory a dark, relatively quiet place is a great spot to put a baby down for a nap. Practically though, kids and grown up movies, or toddlers and sitting still and quiet in one place, don’t really go together. Realistically, it’s probably going to be at least a couple of years before you make it to the movies again. Enjoy the new releases while you can.
Spend time in bed
Take this however you will – chances are that anything you’re currently thinking works. Sleep, kiss, read books together, have wild sex, eat breakfast in bed or just lie there and talk. In the coming months, time in bed is something you’ll only get to daydream about. Make the most of uninterrupted snuggle time.
Eat out at a fancy restaurant
Go somewhere quiet and romantic where there’s not a tablecloth you can draw on.
Be spontaneous
Relish the opportunities to leave the house with just your wallet, phone and keys. Pick somewhere on a map and go for a day trip. Explore somewhere you’ve never been. Walk out the door with no plans for the day, and just take it as it comes.
Stay up all night
Watch the sun set, then talk, watch movies or party until it rises again the next day. Spend the next day sleeping it off – and wake up whenever you feel like it!
Take a trip to Bunnings
This was my husband’s suggestion. I think he really laments the days where we could plan any sort of home improvements together. Now, I just send a child along with him in my place, which isn’t a great formula for productivity. If you are thinking of renovating or redecorating together though, pre-children is a good time to do it.
Spend time doing an activity your partner loves
One of the hardest adjustments for us when we had kids was that we had less time to invest in each other. Doing something that your partner really enjoys (like a trip to Bunnings!) is a great way to connect and make the other person feel valued. Whether it’s listening to music, going bushwalking, playing cards or going swimming together, find time to understand more about your partner and the things they love.
Go on a Babymoon
The time leading up to your due date can end up being really busy. Planning to go away for a few nights is a great way to relax and have some quality time together.
Talk and listen
Chat about your day, discuss philosophy or talk about your hopes and dreams. It’s really easy to let meaningful conversation slide when your days and nights are consumed by a newborn. Take pleasure in just sitting and talking to each other. If you’re up to it, chat about your expectations and hopes for parenthood. Even if nothing turns out the way you think now, it’s nice to share the anticipation with each other.
Whether it’s movies, dinner, board games, or puzzles – whatever you do, treasure this time together. Spend time working together and loving each other as you get ready for the rollercoaster ride that is parenthood.
