People might think that marital happiness is at its zenith when Mom and Dad are chasing around little kids, enjoying watching their childhood while taking fun family vacations. But nothing could be further from the truth. It might feel sad to watch them grow and become independent beings, but when your kids don't need your help for every single task they attempt, it frees up some time for you and your spouse. Quality time doesn't have to be a furtive hour of cuddling on the sofa during naptime - it can be an indulgent dinner at a restaurant without having to worry about the kids. And there's less stress over worrying about schedules. If the kids are of driving age, then the days of carpools and juggling extracurricular activities might be gone.
When couples are less anxious about the day-to-day family business, they are more relaxed and enjoy each other's company more. As the kids age, parents may realize that family fun has caught up to their own interests. It's easier to take preteens camping, for example, without having to worry about little ones wandering off in the night or falling into the firepit. At amusement parks, there are no height restrictions, so the entire family can enjoy the rollercoasters. And with older kids spending more time away from home, parents can work out issues and problems without kids worrying about Mom and Dad fighting and not having time to cool off after the argument. It's easier to explain to older children when parents need alone time - a young child might view it as rejection. And finally, time to yourselves gives parents time to reconnect and be intimate. You might find that you fall in love all over again!
