Dating as a Single Parent

Let’s be real… dating as a single parent isn’t just about swiping right. It’s navigating emotional landmines, coordinating childcare, and dealing with the guilt of wondering if you’re being selfish for wanting love again.

If that’s you? You’re not selfish. You’re human.

Whether your last relationship ended in heartbreak, betrayal, or just grew apart over time, rebuilding your sense of self while parenting solo is no easy feat. So if you’re even thinking about dating again, give yourself some credit. That takes courage.

The Guilt Is Real, But It Doesn’t Have to Win

Many single parents put dating on pause because they feel guilty. Guilty for taking time away from the kids. Guilty for wanting romance. Guilty for the fear of introducing someone new.

But your kids don’t need a parent who’s a martyr, they need a parent who’s emotionally healthy and whole. If dating brings you joy, laughter, or just a reminder that you’re more than someone’s mom or dad? That matters.

Your Time Is Precious, Don’t Waste It on Maybes

You’re not 22 with unlimited weekends and a flexible schedule. You’re juggling school drop-offs, bedtime routines, and maybe two whole hours to yourself each week.

So don’t waste those hours on people who send mixed signals, disappear for days, or don’t respect your priorities. Be upfront about being a parent. Anyone intimidated by that? Not worth your time.

Safety and Boundaries Come First

Bring your best self, but bring your boundaries, too. If someone pressures you to introduce them to your kids early, doesn’t respect your co-parenting setup, or shows red flags… walk away.

Also, protect your emotional safety. You deserve someone who understands that love isn’t about fixing you, it’s about respecting the strong, resilient version of you that showed up even when life got hard.

You’re Not Broken, You’re Rebuilding

If you’ve been ghosted, breadcrumbed, or just disappointed over and over again, it’s easy to feel like maybe you’re just not meant for love anymore.

But that’s a lie.

You’re not broken, you’re rebuilding. You’re showing up for your kids and maybe, just maybe, you’re learning how to show up for yourself again, too.

Resources for Single Parents

Need emotional support?
→ National Parent Helpline
→ Mental Health America
→ Love Is Respect (if you’re worried about unhealthy dynamics)

Final Thought

You’re allowed to want love. You’re allowed to take it slow. You’re allowed to wait. You’re allowed to try again.

And no matter how many times you fall or get disappointed, it doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human.

With compassion,
Eryndor
Founder, Single Parent Bible
admin@singleparentbible.com