[imagesource: Pixabay]

As a single dad, raising children is tough enough. When you throw the idea of dating into the mix, you have quite a challenge on your hands. No matter what has caused you to be a single parent, you deserve to date. 

Getting back onto the dating scene can be daunting, especially if you’ve been out of the game for a long time. On the bright side, there are many dating apps for adults that make it easier to meet new people.

To help you find ‘the one’ while keeping your kids happy, here are some useful tips that can help.

Take Things Slow

Once you’re ready to jump into the dating world, there is no need to rush. You shouldn’t feel as though there’s a time limit to finding love. The right person for you may not appear right away, and that’s okay. For newly single dads, you may feel lost being on your own. However, when you have children to look after, they should be your first priority, no matter what. If you get back into dating and find you’re not quite ready, simply take a step back until you feel more confident. 

Speak to Your Kids

If your children are old enough, you should let them know you’re dating. You’ll be surprised how much your kids can pick up on your emotions and feelings, so if you’ve not been quite yourself due to a breakup, or you’re unhappy being single, this will show on your face. Make sure your kids know that their wants and needs will always come first. You don’t want your children to feel pushed aside in favor of love conquests. 

Head Online

Thanks to technology, online dating has become increasingly popular over the years. In fact, there are millions of Americans on dating websites and apps across the country in the same boat as you. This means you shouldn’t have too much of a problem finding dates. There are specialist dating sites for single parents, so click for more info. If you’re ready to start online dating, make sure your photos are up to date. Your bio needs to be interesting too, otherwise, potential suitors will swipe left and go elsewhere. When you date online, the amount of choices and options can be overwhelming, with even Facebook now joining in. If you don’t find a suitor in the first couple of days, don’t let this dishearten you. Finding ‘the one’ will take time. As long as you stay committed and make an effort with matches, you should score a date.

Be Honest

When you strike up a conversation with a match online, it’s important that you’re open and honest about your situation. While no one is saying you have to put photos up of your kids, you should let the person know you have children in the first conversation. A huge chunk of your time will be taken up looking after your kids, so if you’re always busy, make sure you let your date know. If they are the right person for you, they’ll fully understand this. If a date cannot accept that your kids always come first, it’s time to continue your search. 

Keep Your Options Open

Lots of single parents are under the impression their dating options are limited solely to others in the same boat. While it can be great to connect with those who know what you’re going through, it doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of singletons who are interested in those with children. Make sure you go into the dating scene with an open mind as you may meet someone who catches your eye that you normally wouldn’t think twice about in person. 

Image: Pixabay

Trust Your Gut

Whether you’re chatting to a match online or going on a date in real life, you should know within an instant if the person is right for you. If the conversation isn’t flowing, and you don’t feel at ease, you should always trust your gut feeling and not lead anyone on. We have a gut feeling for a reason, so if you can’t see a second date happening, it’s best to move on and carry on your search. 

Notify Your Ex

If the mother of your children is still involved, it’s courtesy to let them know that you are dating. While you don’t need to tell them the ins and outs of your conversations or dates, should you meet someone you see a future with, it’s always wise to give your ex-partner a heads up. If things go well and the person comes into your life, they will be a huge part of your kids’ lives too. Being civil with your ex is the best thing for everyone. 

Hitting the dating scene should be something to look forward to, rather than dread. We all deserve to find love, no matter what has happened in the past. If you’re a single dad, taking the tips above on board should help you on your quest of finding the right match.