This is How to Date as a Single Parent

Start Single Parent Dating the Right Way

Parenting is one of the toughest, but most rewarding, jobs in the world. Of course, being a single parent is even more difficult; taking on all the duty and responsibility with no partner to provide support and affection can be draining…

This is why it’s a little strange (to us) that so many people are hesitant when it comes to dating as a single parent; after all, single parents need (and deserve love) just as much as the next person! All you need to do is go about it in the right way!

Advice for Single Parents Dating Again

If you’re ready to find romance again the first thing you need to do is be certain that you’re ready. This is often the thing that people find most daunting. When you have been with someone for a long time, or when you have been alone for a long time, it can be hard to know when you are ready to be in a relationship, or even date, again.

There are three main ways in which you will know that you are ready to start dating again:

1) You care whether people notice you or not; when you first break-up, or when you’re not emotionally available for whatever reason, it’s often the case that you don’t care whether or not other people are noticing you. When you start looking at people as potential partner and gauging their interest… well, that’s a decent sign that you’re ready to date.

2) The idea of having someone around makes you smile; if you find yourself daydreaming about having someone in your life then you can be pretty certain you’re at least ready to think about dating again!

3) You catch yourself flirting; despite what some people say, flirting is not always a conscious choice. If you catch yourself flirting with that cute guy at work, or eyeing up someone on the subway, then you might be ready for romance again!

Three Single Parent Dating Tips to Keep In Mind

If you’re sure that you’re ready to get back out there, there are a few things you should do to make sure that your dating life doesn’t negatively affect your home life. After all, as a single parent you have more to think of than the average single.

So, what can you do to make sure that your love life doesn’t make things difficult?

Well, firstly, you should be upfront with potential dates; whether you meet someone through friends or through an online dating site you should be honest about the fact that you have children. This will put make sure that you don’t get invested in someone who is unwilling to deal with every part of your life. Secondly, you should wait a little while before getting sexually involved with someone; when you have been alone for a while it can be tempting to jump at the chance of affection. Remember to take your time and feel people out… after all, it’s much easier to cut ties with someone (if needed) before you’ve slept with them. Finally, try to keep your children out of your dating life until you meet someone that you are sure you at least want to stick around. If you can keep these three simple things in mind you’re off to a good start!

Single Parents Dating Each Other Should Keep This in Mind

Occasionally you’ll find yourself in the position of dating another single parent! This is both a blessing and a burden; while you have the benefit of dating someone that understands what you are going through intimately, they also have the same responsibilities and worries as you!

When dating another single parent it’s key that you first build your relationship as individuals. There will be a temptation to bring your families together quickly, especially if you have kids who are about the same age as each other. It’s key, however, that you don’t allow your children to get attached to each other, and to your new partner, before you’re certain there’s potential.

Secondly, you will find that you have less time together when you’re dating another single parent… after all you both have busy schedules! This means that you need to make the most of the time you do have together; plan special days out and dates to really boost your interactions. You should make the most of technology, too, to keep in touch even when you’re not able to meet in person.

Finally, when you do start to blend your families you need to take it slow and communicate clearly with everyone involved. Sit down with your partner and discuss any special needs or circumstances regarding the children, set rules and boundaries for discipline, and bring your exes into the loop. Once the adults have it all sorted you can start chatting to the children about your new relationship. Remember to listen to their concerns (they will have some), and don’t push your luck with your partner’s kids. Remember that they already have another parent, just like your kids, and will potentially see you as a threat to that parent. Many kids still believe that their mum and dad will get back together; don’t take any bumps in the road personally!

Dating as a single parent is not easy, but if you are patient and kind, and you take your time. Love is a marathon, not a sprint! When you take the road less traveled by you are sure to find yourself at the end of your journey happier and more fulfilled for having taken the time to find what you really need rather than a quick fix!

So, what are you waiting for?