We often gear our advice toward single parents that are looking to date, but what should you keep in mind if it’s a single parent that you’re dating? This guide is geared toward those that are dating, or looking to date, a single mum. Our guide to dating single mothers provides you with all the tips and advice you need to navigate this unique (but arguably pretty fantastic) dating situation.

A Guide To Dating Single Mothers

Dating a single mother can be a challenging but enormously rewarding experience. Like all relationships, it requires patience, understanding, and flexibility, but you’ll need to make extra allowances to navigate a relationship with someone who has children. But there are a whole host of benefits, too. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the things you should consider before dating a single mother, as well as some tips for building a successful relationship.

Children Come First 

One of the biggest challenges of dating a single mother is the fact that her children will always come first. This means that you may need to be flexible with your plans and be understanding if she needs to cancel a date or reschedule. It’s important to remember that her children are her top priority, and she is likely doing her best to balance her responsibilities as a mother and a partner. See this as a downside? Then dating a single mum is not for you. 

Between work, household responsibilities, and taking care of her children, a single mother may have limited time. This means that you may need to be patient and understanding if she can’t see you as often as you’d like. Absence makes the heart grow fonder. Be patient. 

Benefits of Dating a Single Mother

There are also many benefits to dating a single mother. Single mums are often incredibly strong, independent, and resilient. They have a lot of love to give, and they know how to prioritise what’s important in life. They are also often great at multitasking and managing their time, and can show you a whole new world of possibilities of what it’s possible to achieve in life! 

Additionally, dating a single mother can be a great opportunity to form a blended family. If you have children of your own, you may find that your partner’s children open up a whole new, beautiful possibility for a bigger family. You may also find that you have a lot in common with your partner, as you both understand the joys and challenges of raising children.

Red Flags of Dating a Single Mother

While dating a single mother can be a wonderful experience, there are some red flags you should be aware of. These red flags run both ways, so you should both be aware of whether the other is displaying them. 

• Talking about an ex constantly
• Wanting to involve children in plans too early
• The expectation that a new partner will be a parent figure right away 
• Constantly cancelling plans without explanation
• Poor communication or ownership of areas of personal growth required

If you notice any of these red flags on either side, it may be a sign that the relationship is not right for you.

Here are some tips to get the most out of your relationship…

Understand Her Priorities

As we already mentioned, if you’re dating a single mother, her children will always come first. Be flexible and understanding (up to a point!) if she has to cancel or reschedule. NEVER try to come between her and her children or make her feel guilty for prioritising them. Instead, try to find ways to support her and make her life easier. For example, you could offer to help with household chores or go through her schedule with her to make scheduling a joint problem. By doing so, you are showing that you respect and value her as a person.

Respect Her Time

Single mothers often do not have a lot of free time, which means that the time they do have is precious. If you want to build a successful relationship, it is important to respect her time and make the most of the time you have together.

Be punctual when you have plans, and try not to cancel or reschedule unless it is absolutely necessary. Make an effort to be present in the moment when you do have time together: by doing so, you are showing her that you value and appreciate her time.

Don't Make Assumptions

When dating a single mother, it is important to avoid making assumptions about her life, her children, or her parenting style. Every family is different, and you may not know the full story until you get to know her better. This is especially important if your partner has an ex that is still involved with her children. Remember that this person is, and always will be, their children’s parent, and trying to remain supportive and impartial is the best route here. 

Instead of making assumptions, ask questions and listen to her answers. Try to understand her perspective and respect her decisions. By doing so, you are showing that you are open-minded and willing to learn.

Be Flexible

One of the keys to building a successful relationship with a single mother is being flexible. This means being willing to adjust your plans and expectations based on her needs and schedule. For example, if she has to cancel a date because her child is sick, try to be understanding and help to find a solution. By being flexible, you are showing that you are committed to building a relationship with her and her family.

Be Supportive

Listen to her concerns, offer your advice and support when needed, and be a source of strength and comfort when things get tough. You can also be supportive by being an active part of her children’s lives when the time comes, and helping out when you can. By doing so, you are showing that you are committed to building a strong relationship with her and her family.

Communicate Regularly

Effective communication is key to building a successful relationship with anyone, and it’s especially important with a single mother, where pressure may be increased and the opportunity for conflict may rise. This means checking in with her regularly, listening to her concerns, and being honest and open about your own feelings. Avoid jumping to conclusions, and try to view things from her perspective. Being a single mother can be glorious, but it’s not an easy ride. Open communication is the key to avoiding adding to the stress in your partner’s life. 

Embrace Her Children

When you are dating a single mother, it is important to embrace her children and make an effort to build a relationship with them if you’re invited to. This can be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. Not sure where to start with this? Ask her. All she wants to know is that you’re willing and open. 

Ready to connect with other single parents that are looking to date? Check out the Frolo Dating App today. 

You can read our guide to Frolo Dating here. 

Connect with other single parents on the Frolo app today! 

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