As I made dinner that night, everything felt different. For starters, the house was quiet. When you have three kids that never happens unless everyone is asleep. But my kids weren’t sleeping. They were not even home.
It can be disorienting when your kids aren’t there. This is especially true if they go to summer camp. The typical noise, activity and even meal times aren’t the same. That may sound like heaven if you’re in the middle of refereeing a sibling squabble right now. You may even think you know exactly what you’ll do when the kids aren’t there. You may have been dreaming of a break, and there’s no shame in that. But when you look around and there is no one needing anything from you, it can be hard to know how to use that time well.
You can take the wait-and-see approach, or you can think about how you want to spend that time. Is there anything you and your partner want to do? Can you use this time well? It’s okay to think about this. You’ll still miss your kids, but the time when they are at camp can be good for parents, too.
While the kids are away at camp, you can use the time to reconnect, rejuvenate and indulge in activities they might not always have time for. Here are some ideas:
Date nights
This is often the first thing parents think of, and for good reason. Being able to have date time without worrying about a sitter or kid activities feels like a luxury. Use this time to have some date nights or participate in activities that you both enjoy but might not do often due to parenting responsibilities.
In the summer, Downtown Ann arbor is the perfect spot for a date night. With the streets closed, there is a lively community feel every night. Grab a bite to eat at a local favorite, such as Black Pearl or Echelon Kitchen + Bar. After dinner, catch as show at the Michigan Theater or Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase.
Explore hobbies
Hobbies? What are those? For most parents, hobbies take a backseat to the demands of everyday life. Use this time to take up a new hobby or indulge in ones you’ve neglected. Whether it’s painting, gardening or learning a musical instrument, this is a great time to dive in.
Travel
You can go on a trip without worrying about childcare! This is a great opportunity to plan a short getaway or a weekend trip to a place you’ve always wanted to visit. Enjoy the freedom of not having to plan around the kids’ schedules.
Take a trip up north to Charlevoix or Traverse City, or to west Michigan to Grand Rapids, Grand Haven or Holland.
RELATED: Best Family Road Trips Within a Two Hour Drive of Ann Arbor
Home improvement
This may not sound very exciting, but it’s amazing how much you can get done without the normal interruptions of daily life. You can work on home projects together or hire someone without worrying about how to steer kids clear of a project area. Whether it’s redecorating a room, renovating a part of the house, or starting a DIY project, it can be a fun way to bond or just get the work done.
Relax and recharge
You can take advantage of the quiet time to relax and rejuvenate. Go for spa days, get massages, or simply spend quiet evenings at home. Use this time to relax and fill your cup so you feel recharged when the kids come home. A few of the local spas in Ann Arbor are Spavia Day Spa, Bellanina Day Spa and Sapphire Spa.
Fitness and health
This is a great time to think about your health goals. Focus on fitness goals by going for hikes, trying out new workout classes, or simply enjoying long walks or runs together. It’s also a good time to try a new recipe or meal plan.
Cultural exploration
Attend concerts, visit museums, or explore local cultural events that you might have missed due to parenting responsibilities. You can even take a cooking class together or explore different restaurants. Use this time to explore and try new things.
Volunteer work
Dedicate some time to volunteer work or community service. It can be fulfilling and a great way to spend time with your partner or simply serve the community on your own.
Quality time with friends
Getting together with friends can be challenging with the demands of everyday life. Use this time to reconnect with your friends. Organize gatherings like a dinner party, game night or BBQ. You can even combine these ideas and explore or take a trip with friends. It will feel good to reconnect.
Remember, this time apart from your children can be an opportunity to strengthen your relationship as a couple and recharge individually. Enjoy the moment and have fun!
