Dating a single parent may seem daunting, but try and imagine, dating as a single parent is even tougher! If you do meet the partner of your dreams and discover they are a parent theres a lot you can do early on to help things go smoothly, make the relationship work and gain your new partners appreciation.

Your partner will be concerned about dating as a single parent and the impact it may have on your relationship and their kids. However, if you are able to reassure them that you understand that the top priority is the kids and there are inevitably times when plans dont work out due to childcare problems or kids being ill, your relationship will be all the stronger.

Avoid putting any pressure on your partner to be included in access visits too soon. For an absent parent, these times are very precious and you will be included when the time is right. However, this will depend not only on your partner but also on the kids themselves and at what stage they are ready to meet a parents new partner.  

By respecting the privacy of your partner and their kids during access visits, youll avoid the children feeling you are taking their parents attention away from them. This can result in some jealousy and resentment, so try not to call or drop in when your partner has the kids and never ask your partner to cancel these visits.  

If your partner is the full time carer for the children, it will be tough at times for them dating as a single parent. It is easy to feel a little pushed out when your partner is overwhelmed with the inevitable exhaustion or feels guilty about going out. Dont be surprised or upset when your partner simply doesnt have the energy to arrange childcare and go out. Instead, make sure they know in advance about any arrangements you do make and have plenty of time to arrange a babysitter.  

Single parent dating is a big step for anyone so be sensitive to your new partners potential reluctance to let you know too many personal details initially. They may seem overly cautious and you could consider this to be a personal insult as you see no reason for it but it is almost certainly their protective nature coming to the fore and making sure their kids are not exposed in anyway. Instead of being upset by this try to be understanding and make a conscious effort to be open and build their trust from the start. Your new partner will appreciate your understanding and it will help build a much stronger long term relationship.  

Cheryl Ashbrook is one of the authors on the online dating tips website www.MaxMyProfile.co.uk which provides online dating advice and services for men and women. If you would like to read more articles on dating as a single parent please visit the single parent dating section at MaxMyProfile.