Christmas is a time for family and friends but sometimes it is nice to get a night off and go out without the kiddies.

Getting a night off can be quite hard for some people as extended families may live far away and babysitters can be quite expensive. In saying that, however, it is important you get some time to yourself over Christmas and enjoy that little bit of space.

With a little bit of strategic planning, you should be able to get a night off. Here are a few tips on doing so:

  1. Take turns.

    Offer to take a friend or family member's children for the night and let them take your kids another night. This works well as both of you get a full night off and while having extra kids over may be hard work, it will be worth it for that one night of freedom!

    Without the kids at home, you’ll be able to go out or stay in! Lots of parent’s love having the house to themselves and the freedom to run around the house late at night after a few drinks or being able to watch TV all night without being disturbed. Whatever it is you want to do, do it - it is only one night after all!

  2. Book the grandparents.

    It’s Christmas after all and your partner's parents or your parents might love having their grandchildren over. They'll get to hang out, chat and connect with their grandchildren for a full night. For parents, this is ideal as you’ll know the kids are cared for and it gives you a chance to relax all night! And don’t even feel guilty for it - it is good for grandparents to spend time with their grandchildren and the kids will love it too. 

  3. One on and one off.

    You and your partner should make a deal before the festive period kicks off about making sure you both get a night off while one stays at home. This can be an evening of your choice and the other one (who cares for the kids that night) must get up the next morning too so you can enjoy the night off to the full – this includes nursing a hangover!

    This should include an early evening pass so the person can go out early or spend some time getting ready without the kids disrupting you. It’s worth considering if you don’t have family around or can’t afford a babysitter. 

  4. Babysitter.

    If you have a babysitter you trust, this could be the ideal solution, especially if you don’t have family/friends you could swap kids with for a night! Make the most of it by booking the babysitter from the early evening so you can get out and spend an evening in peace. You may struggle with the early morning wake up call the next day but maybe try and do the rock, paper and scissors to make that important decision with your partner! 

Fingers crossed you will get a night off this Christmas!

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