Families logo

Dating with Children

Getting Back in the Game

By Marlene AffeldPublished 5 years ago 4 min read
Like
Dating With Children by Simon Matzinger, @8moments

It goes without saying; our children are an integral part of our lives. Do not downplay the fact that you have children or in anyway “apologize” for their existence in your life. Stop wasting time on anyone that you feel discounts you because you have children; children are part of the package.

Apparently, for a host of different reasons, some people are not interested in dating someone with children. So what! Get over it! When you realize this, you can move ahead with someone that welcomes the children in your life. Although, you want someone you date to know about your children when the relationship is in its infancy. Make sure you present yourself as an individual with lots to offer in a relationship—not just your role as a parent.

Be Selective

Statistically, persons with strong family ties make the best potential partner for a single parent. When you date someone that has close relationships with their parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and children (if they have them), you know you are dating a person that values family. Although there are exceptions, a person who has never been married and does not exhibit close family relationships is unlikely to have the patience or motivation to become any permanent part of your family dynamic.

Plan Ahead

As a single parent with young children, getting back in the dating game and attempting to develop a meaningful relationship requires some adjustment to your schedule; practice flexibility and patience. Be prepared for the unexpected circumstances such as children getting sick, babysitters canceling at the last minute, or school events popping up that can intrude on the best of plans. Try to have a “back up” sitter in reserve or an alternative idea for your date that can include a movie night at home or an activity in which the children can participate.

If your date is upset or complaining when you have to change a dinner reservation or cancel plans because of a situation with the children that requires your attention, you may want to consider if this is someone that will fit into your life. Your children come first. If your new date doesn’t understand your commitment and parenting responsibilities, they are unlikely to be accommodating when a similar situation arises in the future.

When Children Learn You're Dating

The role of a single parent is challenging enough without the added anxiety and stress from getting back into the dating scene. No matter their age, children are vulnerable in the aftermath of divorce. Parents with children face difficulties those not yet dating have yet to experience.

The majority of single parents say that the biggest problem is the reaction of the child when they learn that you are dating. Because it is impossible to know or predict how your child will react to the news, it makes it even more difficult to share.

Before you start dating, discuss the prospect with your children. Young children do not comprehend the concept of dating. It is best to say you are spending time with your friends when they ask about your absence. With older children, it's vital to discuss dating and give them the opportunity to talk about how they feel about you starting to date. Realize that older children may be resentful of a new person in your life or need time to adapt to the situation and to the idea that you are dating.

Offer Young Children Reassurance

Before starting to date someone new, explain to your children why you are dating and reassure them that no one will replace their other parent. No matter their ages, let kids know that they are your number one priority: you will always be there for them, no matter whom you are dating.

When discussing dating, stress the friendship aspect and downplay any romantic involvement. If children are anxious, resistant or negative, don’t become defensive or ignore your own needs in deference to their feelings. Acknowledge children’s emotions; give extra hugs and attention but do not allow them to manipulate you with guilt.

If you do introduce your children to the new man or woman in your life, understand and acknowledge to yourself that adolescents, tweens and teens will be more affected by a breakup than toddlers. It is confusing and cruel when children become attached to a new person in your life only to have that person disappear; a passing fancy.

It is best not to introduce your kids to an array of different people. To do so sends mixed signals and can cause conflict. To maintain trust and stability, avoid parading a bunch of dates before your kids, only introducing someone new after you have determined that the person you are dating will have a long-term place in your life.

Introductions

Children are complex; “as different as snowflakes.” As a parent, you know when the timing is right to introduce the new person in your life to your child or children. Don’t rush it.

It isn’t necessary to tell your ex that you are dating; it is none of their business as long as your activity does not affect your children. However, if you develop a relationship with someone new that has progressed to the point you want to introduce that person to your child or children, it is best to tell your ex first. After all, you would appreciate the same consideration.

advice
Like

About the Creator

Marlene Affeld

“A passionate writer for more than 30 years, Marlene Affeld’s passion for the environment inspires her to write informative articles to assist others in living a green lifestyle.”

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.