Every mommy needs a break every now and then.  I’m unapologetically overprotective of my kids and really don’t trust a babysitter to keep them unless I know the sitter very, very well.   So what’s a mom to do?  Parent’s Night Out is a good solution whether your sitter issue is financial or emotional.

Have you tried checking into the Parents’ Night Out in your area?  Several places around the Tricities have this program available once a month or more.  Typically you pay a flat fee (around $10-$12 per child) for the evening, and the hours are usually from 6-10 PM.  Most parents drop off their child and enjoy a night out.  There are usually several adults there for supervision so Parents’ Night Out programs are great for several reasons.  First of all, they usually offer a fun activity for kids.  For example, at Meadowview Gymnastics kids enjoy having an open gym during this time.   Secondly, there are lots of kids at these programs so your little one is bound to make a new friend.  Third, the time is flexible so you can stay out the whole time or just for an hour, depending on your need.

Most parents drop off their kids and leave.  I don’t….I grab a yummy hot chocolate or something special, take a good book, and once my kids get settled I go over to the waiting room and enjoy a quiet evening.  I’m right there if my kids need me or when they’re ready to go home, and I still get some time to myself.  They have a great time and so do I!   For less than the cost of a typical babysitter, you can have a few hours of mommy time.