Ask us: ‘My husband and I can only talk about our kids. How can we reconnect?’

Parenting

Login / Sign Up

Thursday, February 2, 2023

Gold / Forex

Parenting For Mums & Dads

Ask us: ‘My husband and I can only talk about our kids. How can we reconnect?’

Feeling disconnected from your spouse? Here’s how to rectify that

Published: December 23, 2021 10:59 Karishma H. Nandkeolyar, Parenting Editor

1 of 8

family — It’s one of the world’s worst kept secrets – parenthood can strain relationships. The roles of husband and wife mutate so subtly into mum and dad moulds that before you know it all you can talk about are diapers and playdates. “Studies have shown that a gradual increase in conflict is likely to occur in couples after having children, followed by a gradual decline in relationship satisfaction,” explains Elaine Maichin, Psychologist, Priory Wellbeing Centre. “After having children, many couples tend to push their romantic relationship to the side, saying they will get back to it after they have taken care of the responsibilities that come with their children.” Here’s how to go back to being you: Image Credit: Shuuterstock

2 of 8

Schedule date night: Bene Katabua, Educational Psychologist at Intercare Health Center in Abu Dhabi, says: “Many couples opt for scheduled date nights for times such as these - whereby discussing parenting is off the table and they show interest and affection to one another. These dates can be as simple or as grand as you'd like them to be - with the focus being on showing interest and sharing positive affect. This could be taking a walk, doing a shared activity, going out for a meal, or even taking a weekend away. The options are endless.” Image Credit: Shutterstock

3 of 8

exhausted parents — Don’t wait for the ‘right time’: Because that moment may never come. Phrases such as, “Maybe when I am less tired”, or “Let’s get through the toddler stage first”, or “As soon as I get back into shape”, become normalised. Time passes by and couples understandably begin to feel more distant from each other. It is important to work on not forgetting your relationship as a couple during the busy day-to-day life of raising children. Image Credit: Shutterstock

4 of 8

5 of 8

6 of 8

phone — Small efforts can do wonders: Make time every day to express gratitude for each other and display gestures – no matter how small - to show that you care, she adds. Image Credit: Shutterstock

7 of 8

8 of 8

couple therapy — Need intervention? Ask for help: Katabua explains: “In some cases, it may be helpful to consider external support. This could be from a religious leader, a counsellor, etc. i.e. an objective person who can help the couple realign and reconnect.” Image Credit: Shutterstock

Latest In

Valentine’s Day: Where to go in Dubai for the perfect

7 minutes ago
Adani share sale funds returned: IHC

7 minutes ago
Dubai puts people first: Minister at Emirates LitFest

18 minutes ago
US layoffs at over 2-year high after massive job cuts

32 minutes ago
Israel’s pioneering drones use free-falling bombs

36 minutes ago

This website stores cookies on your computer. These cookies are used to improve your experience and provide more personalized service to you. Both on your website and other media. To find out more about the cookies and data we use, please check out our Privacy Policy.

Parenting For Mums & Dads

Trending