The Good Life – May-June 2024

DAD LIFE
MODERN DATING AS A SINGLE DAD
WRITTEN BY: PAUL HANKEL
Dating as a dad is … complex. As a
38-year-old dad myself, I understand
the challenges and joys that come
with this territory. As someone who
experienced the single dad dating
scene, but is now off the market, I
was asked to share some insights
and tips on how to navigate the
world of dating as a single parent.
First and foremost, it's essential to
embrace your role as a parent. Your
children are a significant part of your
life, and any potential partner should
understand and respect that. Be
upfront about your parental status
from the beginning, as it sets the
tone for your dating journey. Honesty
and transparency lay the foundation
for meaningful connections.
Can We Reschedule?
You may as well set those three
words as a pre-written text message
on your phone. While dating, you
will cancel and be canceled on … a
lot.
2 | THE GOOD LIFE
Don’t take it personally. It’s part
of being a single parent. The kids
come first. The name of the game
is flexibility! Understand that plans
may need to be adjusted at the last
minute due to unexpected parenting
responsibilities. Being adaptable
shows maturity and demonstrates
your commitment to both your
children and your potential partner.
With that being said, don’t allow
yourself to be walked over. Constant
cancellations on your part or your
potential partner’s part may be a sign
that now just isn’t the right time for
either of you to be in a relationship.
Learn to Plan Ahead
I don’t think that there are too many
men out there who can deny the
fact that women tend to be better
planners.
We are all familiar with the sitcoms
and commercials that depict the
mother as the “calendar person,”
in the family. In my case, this was
startlingly accurate.
Now that you’re single, you are the
official “calendar person!”
Whether it's scheduling dates
during weekends when the kids are
with their other parent or arranging
childcare, planning ahead can help
you make the most of your time.
Clear Communication
Communication is another vital
aspect of dating as a single dad.
Be open and clear about your
expectations, boundaries, and
concerns. Discuss how your children
fit into the picture and listen to
your partner's perspective as well.
Effective communication fosters
understanding and strengthens the
bond between you and your partner.
When it comes to introducing your
children to a new partner, timing is
crucial. Wait until you've established