Tips on Dating a Single Mom

When it comes to dating, I feel like it is more difficult to date when you're a single mom. I usually only go out when the girls are with their dad and stepmom. Which equals to about 10 days out of the month. Give or take. So the first tip I'd like to give.

Be flexible & patient

I promise that if you're patient, it's going to be worth the wait. And if you aren't pushy, she might try a little harder to make her schedule around the date! I've had men ask me out on dates and when I tell them that I'm busy, they keep asking over and over when I'll be free. Men, please note that majority of us don't have reliable babysitters OR we don't like dropping our kids off with sitters/family.

Realize that she is different than a woman without children.

I've always heard men say that it is indeed different when you're dating a mother compared to a woman without children. I feel like us mothers have to be more flexible and patient every day with our children so most of the time, we are the same way with relationships. I feel like us mothers love harder too. I feel like I love harder and faster now that I'm a mother. I look towards the future and try and wean out the ones I don't see in our future. So this might be something new when dating a mother.

Take it slow

This is something my mom always tells me. It could be because I always look towards the future and I'd be so happy if I came across the one that's supposed to be in mine and my girls' lives. Even if she's like me...or even if you date me, please take it slow with me. Remind me that you're not going anywhere and that beautiful things take time.

Understand if she doesn't want you meeting her kids.

This is huge for me. My last relationship with Allan completely ruined my kids. I introduced him to the girls a couple of weeks after we started dating and he was constantly around when he really shouldn't have been. I think I was wishful thinking and making him out to be someone that he wasn't. So if you date me, don't expect to meet my kids any time soon.

Don't parent her kids

If she does introduce you to her kids, don't try and step in and be their dad. Take it slow with the kids. Let them get to know you and like you and when the time comes to where you know you're going to be around for the long run, have a conversation about where she wants you in the role as "bonus dad." Also, small tip. If she's anything like me, she might not want your opinions on her children. Especially if they're difficult like my youngest. I don't want to hear how he would parent or what I should do or how to handle my child. I'm already insecure as it is when it comes to parenting my youngest and I don't want my feelings hurt. I know I shouldn't be like that but it's something I'm working through.

Accept that her kids will always come first

Being a mother is a lifetime commitment. My girls always come first, above everyone. They even come before my own parents. I'd give my very last breath for my children. They. Are. My. Everything. If something conflicts with my kids or their schedule, just know that I'm always going to pick my children. No matter what. Doesn't matter what it is.

Always be honest

Be honest about your feelings about her. Be honest on what you're wanting out of the relationship. Be honest if you don't see yourself in her and her kids future. Always be honest.

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When it comes to dating a single mom, it can be difficult but it can be wonderful. And just remember there's always a plus when dating a mom, she's always going to have snacks in her pantry! I always have an endless supply of peanut butter crackers and cookies. It's definitely a plus!