When you have a large family, it is easy for one or more of the kids to feel lost in the shuffle. In order for each of our kids to have special time alone with me and/or my husband, we had “dates” with each of them on a rotating basis. Some of the things that we did were very simple….like running an errand to the library or a store. Other times we went out for lunch or ice cream or to a local playground. On their birthdays, we did things like playing miniature golf, going to a play or the movie theatre or bowling.

Is is necessary to leave your home in order to have one-on-one time? Of course not! You can read a book together or play a board game with one of your children while the others are busy with another activity, have nap time or quiet time if they are older kids. You can go outside and play ball or gaze at the stars if you have a spouse or other adult available to keep an eye on the other children. Putting aside a little time and space to give undivided attention to one child at a time is very beneficial and worth the effort to create new memories.

There are valuable lessons to learn during these precious times together. For example, your children can learn patience by having to wait their turn for a date with you. Giving them a block of uninterrupted time alone is one way of showing them that they are special and that you value being with them. It also gives you the opportunity to learn more about your child as they may feel more free to open up and share things that they would not with the other kids around. During these unique moments, we have the privilege of reflecting God’s desire for each of us to spend time alone with him.

“What is mankind that your are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” Psalm 8:4 NIV