Dating as a Single Parent: Protecting Peace, Prioritizing Purpose

It’s been a minute, however I’ve been busy being loved properly. I decided to take a break from seeking love from partners who were mentally, physically, and emotionally unavailable—unable to love me the way God wanted me to be loved and the way I wanted to be loved.

I remember having a heart-to-heart with a very close friend and saying, “I think I’m just going to take a break from being in a relationship and looking for love.” And wouldn’t you know it, as soon as I said that, I met the man of my dreams. He embodies all the qualities I asked God for in a mate—gentle, patient, spiritually grounded, emotionally intelligent, and consistent.

For single parents, dating again can feel like a high-stakes game. There’s always that voice in the back of your mind saying, “Don’t bring anyone around your kids unless it’s serious.” And that’s real. For me, that’s always been front and center. Our children’s emotional well-being should never be compromised for our loneliness. But still—desiring companionship is human, and that desire doesn’t disappear just because you’re a parent.

Here are a few things I’ve learned (and am learning) about dating as a single parent:

1. Make sure they’re really about that life.

Be sure the person you’re dating is truly comfortable with the reality of dating someone with children. That means no weird energy when your child interrupts a phone call, no attitude when you have to cancel a date due to a fever or school recital. Your family life is not a burden—it’s a blessing. If someone can’t see it that way, they’re not your person.

2. Keep God at the center.

It’s easy to get caught up in butterflies and good morning texts, but don’t forget to pause and pray. Are you and this person in spiritual alignment? Do your values, beliefs, and long-term goals match? Don’t settle for chemistry when you’re seeking covenant. I asked God to help me recognize a love that came with peace, not confusion—and when it showed up, it felt like rest.

3. Guard your kids’ hearts the way you guard your own.

I know it can be tempting to introduce your new boo once things start feeling serious, but slow down. Time reveals truth. Children form attachments quickly and deeply, so be mindful. I personally believe in waiting several months—until the relationship has shown consistency and growth—before making introductions. And when you do, be honest with your children at their level of understanding. They deserve to feel safe, seen, and secure.

4. Don’t lose you in the process.

Being loved properly feels amazing, but don’t forget to keep checking in with yourself. Does this relationship still align with your goals, your peace, your parenting? Do you still feel free to be yourself, flaws and all? If the answer is yes—lean in. If not, don’t be afraid to re-evaluate.

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Dating as a single parent is not for the faint of heart—but when done with intention, boundaries, and faith, it can lead to something beautiful. Something safe. Something God-ordained.

If you’re in the season of singleness, I want to encourage you: Don’t settle. Keep doing the work to heal, to grow, and to become. The right one will come—not to complete you, but to complement the wholeness you’ve already fought so hard to build.

💬 Let’s talk about it:

Are you a single parent navigating the dating world? What have you learned, and what boundaries have helped you protect your peace?