Embarking on a new romantic journey as a single parent can be both exciting and challenging. Finding love and companionship while balancing the responsibilities of parenthood requires a unique approach. In this guide, we’ll explore seven invaluable single parent dating tips for beginners, offering insights and strategies to help you navigate the world of dating once more. Whether you’re recently single or have been on a hiatus from dating, these tips will empower you to embrace the prospect of a new relationship with confidence and optimism.
What To Know Before You Begin Dating Again As A Single Parent
As a single parent, dating can be a little scary, especially if you’re just beginning to put yourself “out there”. If you’re thinking about dating after divorce, a breakup, or a loss, consider using the following single parent dating tips for beginners to help you adjust your expectations and prepare yourself to re-enter the dating world:
Consider Why Dating Is Important To You
Before you begin dating again, online or otherwise, give some serious thought to why you want to be in a dating relationship in the first place. Are you hoping for companionship, fun, or validation? Knowing what you’re looking for from the outset can help you avoid some of the most common relationship mistakes.
Talk With Your Kids About Your Desire To Date
Being open with your children about your desire to date will make the transition easier for all of you. It’s important to remember, too, that your kids may strongly resist the idea of sharing you or giving up hope that you’ll reunite with your ex, so be extra sensitive to their feelings and concerns as you prepare them for the reality that you’ll soon begin dating.
Decide How You’re Going To “Put Yourself Out There”
There are many ways to re-enter the dating world, from online dating to asking someone out on your own. Remember, too, that not every date has to be an evening event. It’s fine to start with something more casual like meeting for lunch or a quick drink after work.
Use The Acronym “CHECK” To Make Wise Dating Choices
Whether you’re looking through online dating profiles or being introduced to a friend of a friend, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. The acronym “CHECK” can help. The letters stand for:
- Character – Observe his or her character. Is this someone you respect and admire?
- Healthy relationships – Does the person appear to have healthy relationships with friends and extended family members?
- Easy to be around – Is your time together characterized by tension or appreciation for one another?
- Children – How does he or she feel about kids? Is there an openness, or do you sense a level of reluctance about getting to know your children?
- Kind – Finally, how does he or she treat you? This is one of the most important factors to consider. Everything else fades with time!
Know What Your Personal Deal Breakers Are
It’s crucial that you know from the very beginning what you will tolerate in a dating relationship and what you will not. These common “deal breakers” can help you avoid heartache down the road and more quickly find satisfaction in your dating relationships.
Plan Ahead For Physical Intimacy
Finally, decisions about birth control and physical intimacy need to be made up front. In addition, consider sharing your choices with a trusted friend who will help you be accountable to your decisions, as well.
Decide Whether To Introduce Dates To Your Children
You may find that introducing dates as “friends” makes this issue easier for your children, but it’s important to talk with each date ahead of time about your plans, so that they’ll know why you may seem more formal with them in front of your children. Alternatively, wait until things become more serious before introducing your children at all.
