Yes, that’s right. Dating your kids in Rhode Island is a thing. And Rhode Island offers several places that cater to kids of all ages.
The idea of dating your kids may sound strange, outlandish, and counterintuitive to everything we do as parents, but hear me out. It’s well-known that for relationships to sustain and grow over time, we must nurture them, whether it’s our relationship with our partner, friends, colleagues, or even customers. The same can be said for our children.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of work, school, sports, and social engagements, we often try to cram in 1:1 time where we can—in the car, going from one commitment to the next, or waiting in line at the store (speaking from personal experience).
Dating, or scheduled bonding time, with each of your children doesn’t have to be a particularly lavish or over-the-top experience. Instead, it’s about prioritizing time away from other commitments and connections to focus on nurturing the connection that we, as moms, care very deeply about. Dads, too.
Often, I think about how I can inject more 1:1 time with my sons, and researching places to go and things to do makes me eager to get started. Perhaps some of these will speak to you as well.
But first, decide how often (once a month, once every other month, etc.) you’d like to schedule dates with your children. It’s essential to keep it realistic. Start slow if you have to, and build up to more frequent excursions if you want. The key is putting forth the effort to make this happen.
Babies to Toddlers
It’s never too early to start spending time with your little one, and music classes are often a great way to do so. They encourage socialization for your little one and allow you to meet other moms. Check out our list of music classes for babies and toddlers throughout Rhode Island!
Indoor play is another option for babies and toddlers, especially if the weather does not cooperate. Places like Play Time in Smithfield, Fawn and Cub Play Space in Cranston, Go Play in East Greenwich, and SharkBay Play Space in West Warwick are great options to explore.
Outdoor playgrounds are always a win, and our directory will point to some cool ones in your area and throughout Rhode Island.
Preschoolers and Early Elementary Kids
Finding activities for your child between the ages of 4 and 7 is not as challenging as you think. Indoor play spaces and playgrounds are still great options, and you now have more opportunities to engage in structured activities. If you have a little one who is really into crafting, consider checking out The Creative Room in Chepachet. It’s a self-serve craft bar where you can create art.
Roger Williams Zoo offers an opportunity to visit, explore, learn about various animals, and engage in outdoor play in their Big Backyard.
For active ones, trampoline parks are always a favorite place to burn some energy. Sky Zone in East Providence, Launch in Warwick, and Aero in Woonsocket are all great options.
Tweens
The 8-12-year-old age range can be tricky because they know what they like, don’t like, and will not do. So it’s essential to appeal to their interests.
My sons and I enjoy bowling. Places like CW Lanes in Lincoln and Lang’s Bowlarama in Cranston let us fuel our competitive natures with a few games, munch on some apps, and catch up.
If you’re looking for a challenge, consider challenging yourself and your child at Level 99, now open at Providence Place Mall. You’ll work together to solve dozens of challenges in a social gaming playground that test your body and mind.
Top Golf is not just for golfers; it’s for anyone who wants to have a ball. I’m planning my next date with my son, Geoffrey, at their new location in Cranston.
Teens
If you thought the tween age range was tricky, the 13-17 age range is harder. They are busy with school, sports, friends, and life, so squeezing in time with them is a task.
I don’t think you can go wrong with dinner and a movie, as long as you let them pick the movie and the restaurant. You’re catering to what they want and getting 1:1 time with them—a win for both of us!
R1 Indoor Karting is always a great time if you’re a thrill seeker. A few times around the course will have you primed and ready to enjoy good food and argue who the better driver is—on and off the course!
Considering we live in Ocean State, it goes without saying that a trip to the beach is always at the top of my mind. And there are several great beaches to choose from.
Have another place to add to this list? Let me know! I’m always looking for more places to go on dates with my kids in Rhode Island, and it’s even better when it’s one to experience with your kids!
