As a single parent you don’t get an awful lot of time for yourself, everything is about your children of course. But every good parent deserves the chance to meet new people and start new relationships. So if you’re a single parent and more than a little bored of cliché restaurant meals, why not do something a little different for your next first date?
Eat-in instead
If you are meeting a complete stranger this isn’t a good idea of course, but most first dates are actually with people we already know a little, and if that is the case, offering to cook for your date is a daring and fresh alternative to eating out.
So why not ship the kids off to Grandma’s, dust off the cook books and try something exciting? This first date idea is much more private and it gives your date the chance to see your cooking skills, or at the very least shows that you are willing to try things; even if you do burn the pastry!
A day time date
Most dates are evening affairs, a nice meal and all that; but sitting at a table opposite someone you barely know can be awkward to say the least. On the other hand, a fun day out can be a great way to break the ice.
Why not suggest an activity that you both enjoy? Go out for a walk, go to a meseum, or go rock climbing – this is a great chance to see what sorts of things you both enjoy, and you can always leave the door open to an evening date if things go well.
Do something new
If you’re feeling adventurous you could even do something that neither of you have tried before – whether it be pottery making or sky diving, this sort of date will give you something in common and the learning experience is a great way to bond.
Plus, even if the date doesn’t work out, you might find a new hobby instead!
Have a play date
If your date has kids a similar age to yours, why not bring them along? Dating as a single parent shouldn’t have to mean living 2 lives. As a first date you could arrange to meet at a park nearby with your kids. Obviously it is best to meet somewhere public when children are involved, but that doesn’t mean you can’t talk and get to know each other, and your children are such a big part of both your lives, doesn’t it make sense to see what they think of your date?
Eat in is a great option for a matured and decent first date. Also cooking together can be a fun way of bonding. This can save the awkward moment which can happen if you go to a typical date place. Even if the date doesnt work out, it wouldnt be too bad.