Keeping the Flame Alive While Raising Kids
Can we talk about something that nobody wants to talk about but we all probably need to talk about? Keeping that flame burning after kiddos! Our contributor, Laynah, has incredible advice on how she and her husband keep their relationship a priority in their season of parenthood.
Maintaining a strong and happy marriage relationship is not only possible after kids, but can be made fun! Especially during love month, there are a few things I do to keep my marriage spicy in this season of life that I highly recommend:
Don’t underestimate the importance of lingerie. Buy some that fits if all you have is the 2 sizes too small stuff from your honeymoon, and then wear it! Even if you don’t do the deed, putting it on after the kids go to sleep adds a little bit of excitement to your relationship.
Make out for 6 seconds at least once a day. In John Gottman's relationship research, he was able to find that 6 seconds is the perfect length of a kiss that sparks a connection with your partner. Gottman calls the six-second kiss “a kiss with potential.”
Find something to thank your partner for DAILY. Even those without a words of affirmation love language appreciate being appreciated, and gratitude is good for your brain too!
Physically turn towards your partner when they have something to say, however trivial. This is another John Gottman tip! He found during research that couples who stayed married turned towards each other 86% of the time, while couples who ended up divorced averaged only 33% of the time.
Have regular at-home date nights! My husband and I love simply ordering food in and watching a guilty pleasure show (in lingerie of course) but you can alternatively do board games, a paint night, or whatever other creative date night in you can think of!
After you say “I do,” having kids becomes the next great adventure - just make sure not to neglect your relationship as you raise children with your partner! By prioritizing physical touch, quality time, gratitude, and keeping the spark alive, you can strengthen your relationship and create a loving and stable environment for your family. Remember that a strong marriage is a gift for both yourselves and your children!
Photos by Annie Cooper Photography
