Single parent dating tips

[squistle]

I've been single for 6 years, I've just recently ventured into the world of online dating but I just can't figure out how I'm going to work the logistics out. It's been so long since I've had another adult in my life I've forgotten how to adult! It doesn't help that DD's father isn't around to see her so there's no 'free' contact time if you know what I mean but I am self employed and have school hours and some weekends... Do any other single parents who date have any advice? Thanks.

Come and join us on the dating thread

I went on one date through online dating, and we are still together 18 months later. After the first date, he always came to my house in the evening after the kids were in bed. His children are 18 and 20, so obviously live their own lives. He's stayed over maybe 10 times, and has joined us on a few family days out. But mainly our relationship is conducted 3 evenings a week when the kids are sleeping. It's not ideal but it works for us.

Ooh will do Queen!

Yeah looks like it's going to have to be that way for me too Minty. Would prefer a bit more neutral ground at first.... Let's see what happens!

Squistle,my circumstances are very similar to yours and I've been separated a similar length of time. I've tried to have first dates when i have a chance to get a friend to sit or in holidays when the kids spend the odd night with my parents. Maybe then if I think it could be something I have then arranged for a paid sitter for the next few dates. If it's gone well and I trust the guy they have then started coming to mine once the kids are in bed. In 4 years i have had 3 short term relationships between 3-6 months. The Kids don't know as none of the relationships have got to the stage where they were introduced as there were reasons the relationship didn't continue with each.
My daughter is now 11 and doesn't go to bed till gone 9 so not sure what would happen now if things progressed with someone. It's not been easy to meet someone it goes beyond a few dates with though so that has not been an issue recently.
I've definitely had some ups and downs with it and have had some long breaks from the online dating. The dating thread on here is really good for advice and to hear other's experiences and I've been there off an on during my time on line. Good luck!

That's sounds like the same situation as me Plenty. Thanks for that, it's really helpful to hear from someone in the same boat. Hope you have some better luck with the OD too. I've joined the dating thread so hopefully that will help me on what seems like an impossible task at the moment!

Ok so this is prob talked about a lot but does it happen. The single guy without children to date a women with children

How do you explain yourself or approach what you want (do not want another baby daddy) but do want him do not want him involved with my children but still want to have a relationship with him at least not for a very very long time. I share custody of the kids so for 4 nights I'm mummy the other three I can be myself and do things. I don't want a 7 day a week relationship either so for this I would say it's perfect but how many men turn casual into potentially more

Does this ever work? Help advised experience ? Meeting guy without kids does it really ever happen