Dating is tough enough as it is, let alone when you have kids! Some people, particularly single moms, believe that being stuck with kids will jeopardize their faint dating chances. Rest assured; it’s still quite doable. Identity interviewed a sample of single parents and devised a list of useful tips and recommendations based on their past experiences.

  1. Your child is, and should always be, a priority

Whatever happens, your child must always be your first priority. No matter how desperate you want to be with someone, never compromise your child’s wellbeing. Partners could come and go; you have a choice in being with them but your child is forever and has no other parent but you!

  1. Pick the right date

Be more responsible with your choices. If you have as much as a 1% doubt that they might not be good to you or your child, don’t even waste your time!

  1. Your date has to understand that your children come first

While some might think they could simply replace the children in the relationship, or at least get the same attention, make sure they know they’ll never be a substitute. Set the lines straight!

  1. Share your experience with your child if they’re old enough

If they’re old enough, let them in on the relationship. Make them feel like they’re an important part of it so they won’t be taken aback from the relationship in the future.

  1. Make sure your child understands that this person won’t be replacing their real parent

Kids sometimes hate their stepparents because they think they might be replacing their real parent. Make sure they know they are not in competition with their parent.

  1. If your child is young, don’t let them get too attached

Don’t introduce young kids to random dates. Kids get easily attached; they might think that your multiple dates are abandoning them. Don’t introduce them to anyone unless you think they’ll stay in your life for good.

  1. Make sure there isn’t too much PDA in front of your kids

No matter what, kids will always feel uncomfortable when they see strangers, at least strangers to them, being all lovey-dovey with their parent. You don’t have to further traumatize your children with your dating experience.

  1. No matter what happens, make sure your kid is safe

Nothing could be more important than this. Do your research; make sure that whoever you’re dating would never ever hurt your kid in any way. It might seem like common sense, but people usually get carried away. Because starting with the first point, your kid is your priority and always should be!