Be upfront with your date. Make sure that they know that you are a single parent. Surprises like a couple of kids won't make the dating process go very well.
Not every date becomes a relationship. Take it one step at a time.
Don't spend the entire date talking about your children.
Be up front with your children. If they are old enough to understand, let them know where you are going and what you are doing.
Get a baby-sitter and make it a two-some, at first. Children can make friends very quickly and might become attached to someone that you can't.
Include your children in the date making process. Older children may enjoy helping you get ready for the date.
Be a aware of any signs of anger, jealousy, or resentment with the children in the early stages. Let the children deal with any feelings in a way that is best suited to them. Don't allow children's jealousy to control your date.
Remember that the rules of dating might be a little different since your last date.
Inform your ex but don't look for approval. Unless your ex is a saint you probably won't get it.
Look for the right person. Recognize signs of a "send them to boarding school" type of person. This is they type of person that wants you to give up your kids for him. Watch out they can be sly!
Talk to a friend, priest or other confidante about any fears you have before the date.
If you have not already, make sure that the children know that you and your ex are divorced and there is no chance of reconciliation.
Use your dating time wisely, schedule dates when your child is with the non-custodial parent, but don't schedule non-custodial parent visitation for a date. That could cause problems with the children. Remember that the non-custodial parent is not just a baby-sitter.
Don't date before you are ready. Letting others pressure you into dating too early can be hard on you and your children.
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