Single parents face a lot of unique challenges in life, but chief among those is the difficulty of maintaining a social life, or, more specifically, a dating routine. Having kids is a lot of work, and managing that work as a single parent takes up just about every ounce of free time. Naturally, this makes it extremely difficult for parents in these situations to find time for themselves, let alone others.
Still, that is no reason for single parents to despair, or to give up on dating. With carefully managed time and an open mind, there are plenty of ways that single parents can re-introduce themselves to the world of dating. Here are a few specific tips to consider if you’re a single parent and would like to get back in the game.
Gain Confidence In Your Image
One of the biggest obstacles for many single parents who are hesitant to start dating is self-image. Therefore, it’s important not to classify yourself as a “single parent” in any sort of negative way. Sure, you’re busy and you have priorities that some partners won’t be interested in deal with – but you’re also proven to be strong, organized, and capable of building a family. These are very attractive qualities that many singles out there will be delighted to find in you.
Be Up Front About Your Kids
There’s always temptation, even if just for a moment, to hide your kids from a date. It’s not that you don’t want to admit you have kids – it’s that you want to be seen as a single individual, rather than characterized as a parent. However, this generally sets a bad precedent of dishonesty and insecurity that can be hard to get around if, say, you find yourself on future dates with that person. Be up front about your kids – if he or she can’t handle it, it wasn’t meant to be anyway.
Consider Internet Dating
The Internet has an incredible volume of dating and romance-related sites, from romance shops like Adam and Eve, to friendly chat sites, to dating services. With all of the demands on your time, it makes perfect sense to take advantage of some of these services as convenient ways to meet people and “put yourself out there.” If you connect with someone online, you can consider meeting in person later on. This is how many relationships these days begin.
Keep Your Kids In The Loop
Don’t hide the fact that you’re dating from your kids. It only makes things more awkward down the road, not to mention trickier in the present. Be open with them about the process and everything will go more smoothly.
Don’t Obsess About Your Kids
Finally, it’s important to mention your kids to anyone you’re dating – but don’t obsess about them. Show your dates that you are still an individual, and that you are able to be independent despite being a single parent.
Bear and I anxiously awaited our trip to Disneyland. I really couldn’t afford the trip, but I had planned it months ago and couldn’t back out on my other single mom friend who was meeting me there. I figured I’d suck it up and use my charge card if I had to and promised myself I’d pay it all off in a couple of months. 
