3 Single Parent Dating Tips

You have your kids, who are a comfort but they're not the same as having that special someone to cherish and walk through life with. Though some may try, and they do, it's just not the same. This fact often raises the question of when to start dating again.

Keep in mind; I'm just a person providing dating advice for single parents. Unlike Dr. Laura, I hold no professional credentials for what I'm about to say but rather am shooting straight from the hip with single parent dating tips that I hope will help.

#1: Start Slow

Many less desirable people are out there in the world that you certainly do not want to hook up with. Some are even predators of children looking for lonely vulnerable spouses as their next target. This is a good reason to get a background check of the potential mate before getting to emotionally involved.

It's also a good reason to get to know this person before introducing them to your children. Besides no matter if it is death or divorce your kids have his or her parents, trying to replace them with another is not going to be easy for anybody. This is one of the biggest reasons Dr. Laura advises not to remarry till the kids are grown. While I personally think that is a bit harsh and I disagree with her position, I can indeed understand why it is the one she stands behind.

#2: Move Slower

When my wife died I did a very silly (okay, I can think of other words) thing by getting married 82 days later. At the time it seemed like a good way of running from grief. Little did I know the hell that was waiting down just a little way down the road. In all honesty I believe the problems were mutual rather than all "her" I was not ready for another commitment, I needed to heal.

My mom saw this from a distance and advised caution and taking things slow. Next thing she knew we had eloped. Part of taking things slow is to listen to the heart of those around you that love you be they parents, children or friends. They may not always be right, but often they can see a clearer picture of the situation than you.

#3: United We Stand

During the friendship phase it is a good time to listen.

Before getting serious it is a great time to hear what others around you are saying.

But most importantly, before any serious knots are tied be sure everyone has bought into the idea. There is nothing worse than a dissenter in the ranks during the blooming stages of a new marital commitment. If everyone approaches this new arrangement on equal footing it will be much easier to weather the storms.

I remember my mom coming to me and asking for my input before she married again. While I didn't think myself to be in a position of power, having been asked and giving my blessing made it easier for me (the child at that time) to transition into this new living arrangement that was coming to be.

Bottom line?

If you are wanting to know when to start dating again these single parent dating tips are good dating advice for single parents that I hope help all who find themselves in this dilemma on their journey through life.