5 Tips For Dating As A Single Parent

Going through a divorce is a traumatic experience for the kids. Small kids adapt pretty well, but older ones take it hard. Kids never want to see their parents divorce, but it happens to many thousands of families. When a new love comes into the parent's life, most kids are filled with resentment and jealousy.

It is up to the parent to make the kids understand that no other person will ever take their place. Usually after a divorce the single parent gets back on her feet and decides she wants to start dating. She thinks about her time clock and worries about spending her life alone. Now that you've decided to check out the dating sites, there are 5 tips for dating as a single parent that you should follow.

1-Dating profile- Research the dating sites and choose one that will help you with your profile. Be honest and as specific as possible without giving personal information. Let them know that you have kids and you are looking for someone who loves kids. Stay away from online dating.

2-Speed dating events- This is the best dating method as most singles are looking for a relationship. You get to meet several people all in one evening (like a min-date) for five to ten minutes. It gives you enough time to see if you like any of these people and to get to know them a little. That's what first date's are for. Since time is limited, you'll need to have ten questions of importance that you want to ask each date.

3-First date- This is when you need to feel your date out and tell him briefly about your kids. You should get a reaction, although he knew it was on your profile. If he seems interested and you like him, continue the conversation but ask him if he has kids. Then you can switch to hobbies and interests. If he doesn't seem interested in kids, or has the attitude that you're carrying a lot of baggage, make an excuse to leave. Never put anyone else's wants or feelings before your kids.

4-Introducing your kids to your date- Never introduce your kids to your date until you know it's turning into a relationship. Get to know him better and let him know the kids are part of the relationship too. If he appears to be thrilled, then you can introduce him.

5-How the kids will react- Your kids may feel resentment towards your new love and that's normal. They will blame him for you splitting up with their dad, and older kids will smart mouth him. Tell them he is a new friend in your life and he will never take their place. If he does nice things for the kids, they will like him. In time, they will accept him as part of your life. Involve him in your kids activities and go on picnics together.

It's never easy for a divorced parent to meet a new love and include him in their life when the kids are jealous. If he understands this, it will get better over time and your life with him and the kids will be a great one.

The 5 tips for dating as a single parent are from an experienced divorced mother who went through the trials of dating and kids.