5 ways to keep the romance alive after you have kids

Having a family with your romantic partner can be one of the greatest joys in life. It can also be stressful and take a toll on the carefree romance you once had, but there are some simple things you can do to keep the romance alive, even after your small bundles of joy arrive.

• It can be extremely beneficial to your relationships to flirt with your partner, especially if most of your conversations involve baby talk.
• Write romantic notes and leave them around the house or consider sending some racy texts and e-mails.
• Communicating romantically can keep the intimacy alive and help you remember what sparked your relationship in the beginning.

• One great way to ensure you spend time alone is to plan a set date night that does not change. Arrange for a regular babysitter, then get out alone once a week.
• Planning a date night and sticking to it ensures that you'll still have some romantic time alone no matter how busy your lives or children's lives become.

• Make sure to show your physical affection to your partner, even after the kids are around.
• Kiss each other goodbye in the morning, and cuddle on the couch when you watch television at night.
• Being physically affectionate, like flirting, is a regular reminder of the chemistry that you share.

• Once a week, give your partner the day off by agreeing to do all the dirty work.
• Get the kids to school, clean the house, make dinner and let him or her relax.
• This will allow your partner to relax and rejuvenate, and it will most likely result in a happier partner who is able to be present and more attentive.

• If you have babies, your children will hopefully take a nap at some point during the day.
• Take advantage of these quiet times to connect with your partner.
• Consider sitting outside in your yard or taking a shower together while your children nap. Use a baby monitor to keep tabs on the sleeping kids without sacrificing time with your partner.
• Nap time offers a great built-in period of time each day that can be devoted to romance.

Beyond these tips, the most important thing to remember is to show you care to your spouse. The daily challenges in work and raising children may make these small acts seem inconsequential, but they go a long way to establishing a mutually affectionate and close relationship.