1. Enjoy a two-part New Year's Eve. The sitter comes early, you and your
spouse can go out to dinner and be home by 10 p.m., then toast the New
Year with couple time. ''You may find teenagers or college kids in your
area who would be delighted to go out at 11 p.m.,'' Chan said. ''Their
night is just starting.''
2. Skip the sitter. Celebrate with your children earlier in the evening
and let them nod off at 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. Then have romantic time with
your partner.
3. Plan a kiddies party at home. Let your child invite friends for a
play night instead of a play date.
4. Instead of celebrating at night, celebrate on New Year's Day with a
special brunch or dinner. Then your child doesn't feel bad for falling
asleep early.
5. Create a New Year's Eve ritual. Have everyone in the family think
about what they loved most about the last year and what they wish most
for in the next year.
6. Go out for dinner and drinks on New Year's Day instead. It will be
easier to find a sitter and it won't be as busy and expensive as New
Year's Eve.
