How to make your date night out fun and safe for the kids
If you've got little kids at home, going out on a date night with your wife or husband has been a long time coming. Finally, you have managed to get a babysitter you can trust to watch your munchkins as you hit the party scene after what feels like ages.
We've Got Date Night Covered
For most parents, a night out without the kids is a treat that comes only once in a while. Even if this is something you're looking forward to, it's normal to feel worried about your kids and the babysitter. Will they be fine? Will the sitter get bored after the kids are down for the night?
We've scoured the internet for fun ideas and products that will make your date night both safe and fun for your kids as well. Even your babysitter will enjoy the evening with these entertaining activities and gadgets.
Shopping Guide
As you look around for fun ideas to make your date night fun for your kids and even babysitter, these are some of the things to keep in mind
How old are your kids? Not all activities are made for all ages. Ensure that you settle on age-appropriate activities for your kids
What does your babysitter enjoy doing? Are they a bookworm or a gamer? It defeats the purpose of getting an activity that your babysitter doesn't identify with or isn't interested in.
How confident are you in your babysitter's skills? You may be new parents who may be a tad bit insecure about leaving your child with a stranger for a few hours. Consider getting a product that will allow you to 'snoop' on your child while having a good time.
What To Buy
There are tons of fun activities, gadgets, and books that you can get your kids to make date night fun for them too while you're out. Here are some of our top picks.
AngelSense Kids' GPS Tracker
For those parents who aren't ready to completely trust the babysitter with their precious kids, this is a great gadget to keep around. While it's specifically produced for children with special needs, it works well for all children. It has great tracking capabilities, so you know exactly where your kids are whenever you need to. This tracker also has a two-way voice system that allows you to talk to your child from anywhere.
Pros
- You get real-time location updates
- Has a two-way voice system
- Has a listening in function
Cons
This device has high monthly charges
Frontpoint Home Security System
This home security system has great ratings from its customers. It holds 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to its features that include easy DIY installation. This means you can install it on the same day you're planning to go out for date night to make sure that your home is secure.
Pros
- Great customer service
- Easy and cheap DIY installation
- Mobile app monitoring from wherever you are
- Has CO and smoke monitoring
Cons
- No professional installation if you're not great with DIY
- Monthly fees are a bit high
Fire HD 8 Kids Edition Tablet
This tablet has great reviews, with most customers giving it 5 stars. Your kids can stream content such as movies and videos via WiFi. This gadget has over 12 hours of battery life between charges. It's also reasonably priced, especially for all the great features that it offers.
Pros
- Unlimited subscription to Fire for Kids
- It has a tough, rubber case that has a kickstand
- Has a great price tag
Cons
- Its hardware specs are average
- It leans towards Amazon products, making your choices skewed
GIGGLE N GO Kids Bowling Set
Are mom and dad going bowling for their date night? Why not let the kiddos enjoy some indoor bowling fun too? This bowling set is great for both inside your house and in the backyard. It's made of durable material, making it a set that you will keep for years.
Furthermore, this bowling set is sure to keep even your babysitter engaged, making it a great game for all ages.
Pros
- The pins are weighted, making them stand up without being knocked down easily
- Made of durable, long-lasting material
- Great for all ages
- Has a one-year replacement warranty
Cons
Has no replacement balls
SEQUENCE for Kids
A good board game is a sure winner for that date night you are all geared up for. There are dozens of board games in the market that are kid-friendly as well as super engaging, including this strategy game for kids. Consider getting board games that you will also enjoy with your kids when you are home with them on Friday and weekend nights.
Pros
- There are several age-appropriate games for both kids and adults
- With no reading required, little kids can play too
- You can play with 2 to 4 players
Cons
Older kids might not be as interested
Llama Llama Red Pajama
Kids love to be read to, especially toddlers. And your babysitter may just love to read. To help your kids get ready for bedtime, try this classic story!
Consider buying a few read-aloud picks for the younger ones as well, and a few mixed-genre books that could interest your sitter once the kids fall asleep. Keep the books in plain sight and let them know they're free to raid your bookshelf after bedtime.
Dora and the Lost City of Gold
A good movie is a great way to keep your kids occupied as you, and your significant other go out on your date night. Check out the latest hit kids movies, like "Dora and the Lost City of Gold."
Whether you're renting a movie or use a streaming service, check that you put on parental controls for your own peace of mind. Your sitter can also enjoy an age-appropriate movie once the kids are down for the night.
A Great Date
All these are just a few of the top activities you can have ready for your children to make date night fun for them too. You can't go wrong with any of these activities and gadgets -- just focus on having a good time!