We take turns hosting kids-only dinners with our neighbors. It gave my kids the closest thing to an extended family they've had.

The author and her neighbors take turns hosting kid-only meals.

Courtesy of the author

When I first suggested a "kids' dinner" with our upstairs neighbor, I was mainly thinking about getting a night off. Feeding my three kids (ages 4, 6, and 10) can feel endless — just when I think I've found a meal that works, one of them suddenly refuses to eat pasta, or rice, or chicken. Getting even one night off every other week sounded like a dream.Thankfully, our upstairs neighbors had two kids who got along with mine, and the parents were just as eager for a break.The logistics are simpleEvery Tuesday night, one family hosts a kids' dinner. We switch off weeks, and the parents simply walk the kids to the other family's apartment door. Parents are welcome to stay, but are encouraged to take an hour for themselves.

The author says these meals with her neighbors' kids have gotten the families closer together.

Courtesy of the author