Dating as a single parent can come with a unique set of challenges. You want to ensure your children feel safe and respected, but you also want to get back out there.
There is a way you can do both and it’s all about balance. Here are some tips for single parents looking to start dating.
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You Deserve to Be Happy
Let go of the guilt that comes with the territory of dating as a single parent.
You deserve to be happy and meet someone new.
Often, kids are uncomfortable with the idea of their parents dating anyone that isn’t their other parent.
It may take a while for kids to adjust, but they will in time and you shouldn’t let that hold you back if you’re ready.
You can respect your kids’ emotions while still doing what’s best for you.
It can be a challenging road to travel, but you will get through it together with open lines of communication and effort from both sides.
Introducing Your Children
Have open and honest conversations with your kids about the possibility of you dating.
Once you meet someone you want to introduce to your kids, be mindful of their feelings as you navigate the introductions.
Having lunch or dinner can be an awkward way to meet since you’re expected to have a conversation.
Consider allowing your child to play at a park or other fun activity while you bring your new friend along.
Let your kids get used to their presence before interaction.
Perhaps your kid will want your new friend to play on the monkey bars with them.
This can help your new partner find common ground with your little one and take some pressure off both of them upon meeting.
If you are a single parent of a teen, consider a similar approach by letting your child ease their way into meeting them.
Extend soft invitations like stating your dinner plans and telling your child they are welcome to join you to meet your new partner.
Maintain Balance
Dating as a single parent can be challenging when you try to juggle work, kids and your home life alone.
How can you add anything else to your already busy schedule? It may take a while to adjust, but the secret is balance.
When you meet someone new, your flooding emotions might make you want to spend as much time with them as possible.
Ensure you split your energy between your kids and your new potential partner.
Your kids will likely feel a little jealous at first and you want to take special care to ensure they aren’t losing you.
Ensure that your kids know you are still available to them all the time, no matter who you are dating.
Keep their concerns in mind when you allocate your time and ensure they know their needs are your top priority.
Your potential partner should understand that they won’t come before your kids and if they don’t, they may not be worth your time in the first place.
Take Your Time
The first year after a divorce or legal separation is tough for everyone.
You are trying to find your way as an individual again and regain your footing.
New prospects and relationships are like a breath of fresh air, but only when you’re ready.
Dating looks different for parents and you should be mindful of how dating will affect them.
Give yourself time to develop real feelings for someone before you bring them into the family dynamic.
Keep your kids in the loop on your relationship status and when you plan to date again.
If it happens unexpectedly, that’s OK too as long as you are upfront and transparent with your date and your children.
Be Open-Minded
Dating as a single parent has ups and downs, like any other relationship.
However, it might be more difficult to find time for dating when you have little ones running around.
Between work and extracurricular activities, you might not have the same opportunities to meet new people as those who don’t have children.
Online dating can be an excellent place to re-emerge into the dating scene.
There’s no pressure and you can surf the web during your downtime, no matter when that might be–early before school or after the kids are in bed.
You might have to sift through some losers, but it’s pretty common to find your soulmate online these days–anything can happen.
With the wide variety of dating platforms available, there are options to suit different preferences, interests, and lifestyles.
If you’re curious about the costs associated with online dating, you can easily find out by clicking here.
Many dating platforms offer subscription plans or paid features that provide enhanced functionalities, such as unlimited messaging, access to premium profiles, or advanced search filters.
Click here to find out how much eHarmony costs and carefully review the pricing and features of different dating platforms to determine if it aligns with your budget and dating goals.
Dating as a Single Parent
If you’re looking to start dating as a single parent, you are absolutely not alone. Utilize these tips to get back into the dating world at your own pace.
The ride might be bumpier, but the results will be worth it.
