How To Start Dating Again When You're A Single Dad
Families come in all shapes and sizes. There are some families that have two parents, there are some families that have one, and there are some families who will spend some of the time with one parent, and the rest of the time with the other parent. When you’re ready to start dating again as a single parent, whatever the reason is for being a single parent, then there are definitely some considerations to think about. It will be a whole different ball game from when you were last in the dating pool, and with children in the mix, it can make things a little more complicated. Here are some things to think about if you’re ready to dive into the world of dating.
Start it slow
When you’re ready to start dating as a single dad, then it is best to keep things slow to start with. You’re just getting to know people, and also getting to know yourself in this new part of your life. As you have the children to take into consideration, dating can be more measured, as it needs to be planned out well ahead of time. You will have a lot to juggle as a single dad, from checking things like a child support calculator, the daily needs of the children, and everything else that comes with running a household with children. So just meet new people, meet up with them outside of the home, and see how things go and what you like.
Don’t compare to your ex
It can be so easy to compare someone new to your ex. And if you start to vocalize things that they used to do that you hated, then it can end up either putting the new person off, or they can try to be anything other than your ex, which means they’re not really being themselves. It can be easy to compare, but try to avoid the trap of talking about them, unless it is talking about when the children see them, for example. Of course, with a deceased spouse, this is slightly different as you’ll have positive things to say about them. Avoiding a comparison is still a good rule of thumb, though.
The children are part of the package
Anyone that is dating you as a single dad needs to know that the children come as part of the package. This means that you should be clear on a few things, such as when you introduce them, sleepovers, and how dates are going to work, once you’ve had a few and want to get to know each other more. Of course, the new person will want to meet them, but it is important that they take their time and you all go at a pace that feels comfortable.
As a parent, you will know that sometimes your plans can change and things happen. It is important to be flexible when starting to date again, and look for someone that understands that. You can’t always put them first, as your priority will be your children.