It can be tricky to get back into the dating game as a single parent, not least because of the logistical and other problems that come with being a single parent. However it is important for a parent to live as full and happy a life as possible and to see other people to that end.
If one is a single parent as a result of the end of a bad relationship or due to the death of a spouse, then it is also important to move on and to live life once again. But it can be difficult, emotionally as well as finding the time to get into the dating scene once again.
The first step to getting back to the dating scene is to find someone you like, and to this end, you can start to socialize more, look up and reconnect with friends etc.
It is important to find someone you’re OK with and someone who is OK with you and your child or children.
You can also take the help of online dating services that are geared towards single parents. Some may be pay sites, while others are free. You may want to take a look at sites such as Plenty of Fish or OK Cupid, eHarmony, Match.com, SingleParents etc that may help you start the process.
Secondly, shed the guilt that may likely come with the process of beginning to date again. For any responsible parent, children and their interests may be the biggest priority and this is not being compromised or neglected in any way just because one starts to date again. This is natural.
However it is also natural to crave adult companionship and there is no need to feel guilty about it or wanting a break every now and again.
As for when to tell the child or children, this is best decided as per the situation. Once you have reached a level of comfort and closeness with the other person, it may just be the time to introduce them to the children. Slow and steady is a good adage to keep in mind for single parents who are starting out on dating.
Strike a balance between dating and your kids. The needs of the kids and quality time spent with them shouldn’t be sacrificed in favor of dating.
After a while you may want to try a date that includes the children as well, particularly if the person you’re dating also has kids. This could actually be quite educative and may bring to the fore, hidden qualities of the other person that you may not have encountered before.
