Moms Night Out Ideas
Being a mom is one of the most rewarding jobs on the planet, but it also can be one of the most taxing. Unlike a standard 9-to-5 position, motherhood comes with no lunch break, no paid time off and no benefits package (though the compensation through hugs and kisses is a pretty sweet trade-off). Because a mother’s work is never done, carving out a little time sans children to rest, recharge and, perhaps, eat a dessert that doesn’t involve dipping into the emergency chocolate stash hidden in the master bedroom (reserve that for when you really need it!) is important.
The only thing better than time away alone is time with other mamas. After all, cultivating friendships with other moms helps inspire and encourage each mother to be the best parent she can be. While playdates are a good start to ensure both kids and their parents have an opportunity to socialize, having an exclusive outing for moms affords each adult an opportunity to finish her sentences, eat food while it’s still hot, try new things and make memories with each other in the process.
The hardest part always seems to be getting started, but establishing a moms night out (or in) routine needn’t be overly complicated. In fact, let that be your mantra. Repeat after me: Moms night out planning should be simple and stress-free! And here’s the easiest way to do it: Set up a private Facebook group. By doing this, you and your girlfriends can privately discuss dates, times and locations and then set up an event within the group where each mom can RSVP accordingly.
There are several ways to go about determining how often you get together. You could simply be spontaneous. Though not guaranteed to work for everyone, the gesture of reaching out in the moment sometimes means the most—and provides a surprisingly sweet end to a long day! Or you and your crew could carve out a set time, such as the third Friday of every month, to guarantee time together happens regularly. This can be helpful when intentions to get together are good, but the busyness of everyone’s schedules makes it seem nearly impossible. Find what works best for you and your mommy friends and encourage each person to take the helm of at least one event, providing everyone the privilege of hosting or choosing at least one evening’s activities.
Of course, a moms night out doesn’t necessitate actually going out. Sometimes the best way to relax is to have the party in your own home! Host a pajama party, a board game night, a themed party (Downton Abbey, anyone?) or a holiday party. A moms night in is a great way to work on long overdue creative projects like sewing or scrapbooking, but it’s also a fun time to learn new skills. Try your hand at making candles, jewelry (for you) or headbands and bow ties (for the little girls and boys in your life). Make that free time profitable by building freezer meals together or offering a book/clothing/toy/kitchen gadget/fill-in-the-blank exchange, a great opportunity to trade good condition items you no longer need and try new-to-you things! Looking to grow your mind? Build a book club and discuss the chapters. Looking to simply veg? Create a DIY spa environment where everyone can do in-home facials, manis/pedis or try out a Pinterest-inspired hairdo. Just pick a relaxing music station on Pandora, offer flavored water and you’re all set!
Freelance writer Lauren Greenlee’s favorite MNO activity is an impromptu coffee date with a few friends—heavy on the cream, sugar and laughter. She and her young family reside in Olathe.
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Need a good laugh? Check out the 2014 film Mom’s Night Out, a comedy that centers on highly stressed mom Allyson’s quest for a few peaceful hours away from the house with two of her best mom friends. With high heels on and lipstick in place, Allyson embarks on what becomes a night she will never forget, complete with a high speed police chase and a search for a missing child. A perfect movie choice for a moms night in!
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