9 Ways Kids Will Strengthen Your Marriage

My partner, Jake, and I dove into marriage pretty quickly after we met, and soon after, we welcomed kids into our lives. During the whirlwind of planning our wedding, setting up the nursery, and attending doctor appointments, I often found myself wondering, “Do I really know this person?” However, jumping into parenthood so early turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It threw us right into the deep end and made us figure out pretty quickly if we were a good match. Honestly, I believe that having kids has made us better partners, and I’m convinced that it can enhance an already solid marriage even more. Here are nine ways kids can enrich your relationship.

1. You Share a Common Purpose.

At first, the goal is straightforward yet profound: keep this little one alive. As they grow, while it may not feel so urgent, you still share the mission of ensuring they’re happy, healthy, and well-educated. This united front makes you feel more like a true team.

2. Laughter is Abundant.

Many warned me about the difficulties of parenting, but no one prepared me for how hilarious it would be. Watching our toddler’s silly antics has brought us to tears from laughing. The joy we find in these moments has forged a bond that’s truly unique.

3. You’re in a Special Club.

Jake often jokes, “Do you think everyone else is regretting that their kids aren’t as adorable as ours?” and I can’t help but agree. We’re the only two who are utterly smitten with our kids, which gives us a unique camaraderie.

4. Quality Time Becomes Precious.

Our life sometimes feels like a series of handoffs: Jake takes care of breakfast while I handle drop-off. Our time together is often scheduled down to the minute, making any moments we snag for ourselves feel like a rare treat.

5. You Discover New Sides of Each Other.

Before kids, you see your partner in various roles—friend, son, coworker. But witnessing Jake take on the role of dad has revealed a completely new side to him that’s wonderful to observe.

6. Dads Become More Attractive.

An engaged father is often selfless, and that kind of dedication can be incredibly appealing. There’s something undeniably attractive about a dad who’s all in.

7. Good Dads Make Great Husbands.

In those exhausting newborn days, when we were both running on fumes, Jake would peel clementines and feed them to me while I nursed. He knew caring for our kids meant caring for me too, which reinforced the idea that our family is a team effort. If we could handle that chaos, we can face anything together.

8. You Enjoy Life Differently.

Before kids, our outings often revolved around nightlife and adventurous vacations. Now, we find joy in simpler moments, like strolling through the park and exploring leaves with our little one. Our lives may be more constrained, but we appreciate the little things more than ever.

9. Kids Give You Perspective.

When you have children with someone, you’re tied to them for life. The future becomes filled with milestones like graduations and weddings. This long-term view adds a profound layer to your relationship, making it more significant than just the two of you.

While marriage is meaningful, having kids is even more profound because you’re jointly responsible for two little humans who never asked for this journey. Before kids, our marriage was fun and light-hearted. After kids? We’re committed to this adventure, passing the baton of parenting one day at a time.

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Summary:

Kids bring unique challenges and joys to marriage, helping couples bond over shared goals, laughter, and new experiences. Parenthood can deepen your commitment and perspective on life together, transforming your relationship in profound ways.