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Being a parent is hard. Despite it being the most rewarding job on earth, it can also be exhausting and downright frustrating at times. We need a break once in a while -- a time out for ourselves, if you will. And although the thought of taking a trip without the little one is slightly terrifying, it really can do wonders for Mom and Dad -- and it's good for the whole family! Here are 5 ways a vacation without the baby will make you a better parent. Bon voyage!
1. Sleep. Doing anything without sleep is a thousand times harder. We're groggy; less patient; and let's be honest, a little short-fused. One night -- one glorious night -- of solid sleep can do beautiful things for the soul. Not only will you feel refreshed, you'll be ready to handle any tantrum with ease.
2. You get to reconnect with your partner. It seems like the first year of baby's life, parents, moms in particular, tend to focus on baby and baby only. While baby does need you more than your partner in the beginning, it's important that you don't let your relationship (you know, the thing that created the baby in the first place), fall to the wayside. Not only will you be happier if your relationship with your significant other is in a good place, you'll be a shining example of what love is to your child.
3. It's good for your child. We're all about the kids these days. Some even say we're in the age of "hyper-parenting". But being on top of our kids 24:7 can actually do them a disservice. If you have someone you trust, leaving your child with them for a night or two can actually be good for the kid. It's important they feel comfortable around people other than you. There may be some tears during the departure, but after a few minutes they'll likely be having a blast.
4. It's important to remember that you have a life. Unless you don't work, have 7 nannies, and are constantly getting massages and manicures, a vacation without the baby is not selfish. As a parent, it's important to remember that you have interests beyond your child. Not only is it good for your general well-being, your kids will grow up one day.
5. You can dress up and go to a fancy restaurant. If you have a small child/children, odds are you aren't getting gussied up each day, and your restaurant trips are limited to certain times and places. It can feel so good to be able to take your time getting ready, and to dine at a place where they don't give you paper place-mats and crayons. You can enjoy a nice, long dinner, and even order a leisurely cup of coffee afterwards if you like! You'll feel like a celebrity and will be 100% ready to get back to parenting duties the next day. (Note: Don't overdo it with the wine, though. Parenting with a hangover will basically negate the entire point of the trip!)
Have you ever taken a mini-vacation without the kids?
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