Dating as a single parent

[Onemorenamechangeagain]

How do you navigate this? Like how do you find the time? Obviously you don't introduce anyone to DCs too soon, that goes without saying, but how long do you leave it? How do you know if they can be trusted around your DC? I've read so many horror stories of step parents abusing their step children, I'm so terrified of something like this happening I wonder if maybe its just best not to bother dating at all?
And what do you do about childcare? Especially if you have no family who can look after your DC?
I know single parents date but how? Because from my angle it just seems impossible!

Personally I haven’t bothered for 10 years and now even when my children are older, I won’t want to because I have become comfortable and happy on my own.
I wouldn’t have introduced anyone to my children for at least a year, but it was just something I never would have felt comfortable with. I also don’t know how it’s possible to build a relationship with very little childcare.

I don't think it's possible to build a relationship unless you have childcare at least once a week. Either family, paid help or the DC's other parent.

I've been single for nearly 4 years because I find it's slim pickings tbh. Can't get anyone to go on a second date with me so definitely not at the stage of thinking longer term.

2 of my best friends are single parents and DH & I have always happily had their children overnight etc when they want to go on dates. 1 doesn’t have family who would help and the other doesn’t want to be announcing to her parents every time she goes on a date, we’re happy to do it! Maybe your friends would do this for you?

I was lucky. I wasn't planning on dating for all the reasons you stated, but I met someone from work that I had known for years and that made it easier. I don't think it would have been possible otherwise.