How to Date As a Single Parent
Dating has become somewhat essential for people who are single, as it allows them to step out of their loneliness and spend some exclusive time with someone who may, or may not be able to show them a good time.
Dating, however, can become somewhat of a complicated issue when a person is a single parent. In such a scenario, becoming too self-absorbed or selfish can make the children feel neglected and in some cases betrayed.
There is nothing wrong with dating as a single parent, but it should be kept in mind that a balance between family time and personal time should be maintained.
Instructions
-
1
Do not start fishing for a potential partner as soon as you become single. Instead, take it slowly. Give yourself some time to rediscover yourself, your needs and desires. Take as long as you want. Do not let your friends and family rush you into meeting new people. You will know for yourself when you are ready to date again.
-
2
It is natural to feel a bit guilty about going back to dating after staying in a committed lifestyle and starting a family. However, you need to make yourself realise that it is perfectly normal to want the companionship of an adult. You are single and therefore no longer bound by any vows or a ring. You have all the right to meet someone new and search for love. You deserve it as much as anybody else.
-
3
Give yourself and your children some time to adjust to your lifestyle. They are probably not used to seeing you going out all dressed up. They may also be feeling uncomfortable with the idea of you going out on a date. It will take them a bit of time, but they will surely adjust to the idea of you dating after some time. Talk to your children and tell them that you will be seeing someone you like. Do not scare them by throwing the possibility of a new mommy or daddy at them. You also need to take it easy. Do not fill up your calendar with dates as one date a week should be more than enough in the early days.
-
4
Decide when you want your kids and date to meet each other. Do not set up the meeting too soon. You need to be sure that you really like and trust that the relationship is moving towards something serious. Make sure both parties are ready to meet each other as well. Talk to them about it and seek their consent before setting up a meeting.
-
5
Do not get mushy with your date in front of your kids. Wait until they have gone to bed before getting affectionate.
