Navigating online dating as a single mom

Dating as a single parent can be intimidating, whether you're newly single or returning to dating after a period of prioritising yourself and your children. However, with honesty, clear communication, and healthy boundaries, getting back out there can be a lot of fun and rewarding.

Megha Vohra, a single mother, met her partner on Bumble, a popular women-led dating app, during the 2020 lockdown. She challenged old, antiquated societal norms as a mother of two lovely children and has been in a successful relationship with Tushar for two years.

Megha, a human design coach, offers some advice on how to navigate your dating journey as a single mother.

Move on: The circumstances that led to you becoming a single parent may have been distressing or devastating, but this is another opportunity for you to learn from your mistakes and get it right. But before you decide to commit to someone, have a relationship with yourself. Give yourself all the love you can, and that light will eventually attract the right person for you.

Be open to possibilities: There may be reasons that prevent you from starting over–you may meet people who aren't a good fit for you, or you may hold yourself back–but the important thing is to be yourself and keep an open mind about adapting to new ways of life. Do not feel guilty about prioritising yourself for a few hours a day or week; you are not a bad mother if you go on a few dates!

Be transparent with your children: If you are considering dating as a single mother, talk to your children about the possibility of falling in love with someone and encourage them to be open to you about their feelings. The best gift you can give yourself is to be open and free with your children. Remember that your children always come first, but they also enjoy seeing their parents happy.

Know when to introduce your partner to your kids: You don't have to introduce someone right away; instead, take your time and allow it to happen naturally. Begin by introducing the person as a friend and gradually progress to your romantic involvement.

Dating as a single mom requires a little more effort, and with fewer opportunities to chat and hang out, building a relationship can be a slow process. The advantage is that the connections you do make will most likely be built on more solid foundations, making them worthwhile to put in the extra effort.