Making time for each other can be a challenge for parents with a new baby, but it doesn’t have to be mission impossible. If you chuckle at the notion of romance, you may be overdue for a date. Here are some tips to help you boost the romance in your life.

• Make your marriage top priority. Be sure to free up some time every week to spend as a couple. If you can’t squeeze in time for each other, re-evaluate your schedules and cut back. Your marriage is worth the effort. Experts say when parents have a happy marriage, the kids are emotionally healthier.

• Be creative. Think outside of the box–the dating box, that is. The reality of sleep deprivation and the cost of baby-sitters may force you to redefine your idea of a "date." Try a weekend matinee or a late-night dinner together. It doesn’t matter if you stay in or go out–the important thing is that you are together.

• Enjoy a little romance in your own home. After you put the baby (and any other kids) to bed, revive yourself with a shower or bath. Then, share a dinner by candlelight. Treat yourself by having food delivered from your favorite restaurant or surprise your spouse with a special dessert that you baked earlier in the day. Or, simply veg out together with videos and popcorn under a cozy comforter. At-home dates can be just as romantic as going out–plus you avoid crowds and the hassle and expense of baby-sitters.

• Get away from it all. Make an effort to plan a romantic night out at least once a month. Cash in offers from grandparents to babysit baby or swap baby-sitting with another family. Purchase a series of play or concert tickets to commit yourselves to the date on a regular basis.

• Pursue a shared interest or activity. Think back to what you liked doing in your prebaby days and take it up again. Dust off your bikes and join a local cycling club. Or, decide on a new pursuit, such as photography, and sign up for a class together.

• Rely on the little things. Romance doesn’t have to revolve around planned activities. When you’re both tired, just snuggle up together. Talk about things other than your life as parents. To let your spouse know you are thinking about him, leave notes on the coffeemaker in the morning or in his briefcase for a pick-me-up later at the office. Phone or e-mail each other throughout the day–just to say "I love you."