Single Parent Dating Tips to Keep in MInd

We all want companionship, and as a single parent it's a little harder to find it. As a single mother for ten years, I understand this.

When children are involved, it changes the dynamic. As a single parent, your time isn't really your own, and certain allowances must be made.

-Your kid's are #1. Your job is to raise good people; don't push that to the wayside for a date.

-Don't introduce your dates to your children. Unless this person plans on sticking around, your kids shouldn't get to know them.

-If you go on a date with someone who doesn't want children or is apathetic toward them, don't keep dating them. You are a package deal.

The internet is used often these days for dating. A couple tips for meeting people this way:

-Be honest about yourself. This applies even if you don't meet over the internet. No one wants to feel lied to.

-If you meet someone off the internet, meet them in a public place, and don't disclose pertinent information about yourself.

If you aren't sure where to meet people, remember these tips:

-Don't go to bars. Any relationship begun at a bar isn't likely to last.

-Take a class, join a softball team, take dance lessons. If you are interested in it, someone else will be too, and you start out with something in common.

-Don't be afraid to talk to someone in the grocery store, video store, where ever! Take chances!

-Don't date coworkers. This is just a bad idea.

Another piece of advice is to remember what's important. What are the qualities you want in a mate? What are you looking for? Don't be afraid to compromise, but know what you'll compromise on and what you won't. Be realistic. Remember, you're not perfect either.

Finally, realize that it may not click with someone for a long time. The point is to develop a life for you and your children. You must be happy with YOUR life before you can make someone else happy.

Good luck, and be safe!