Things You Only Recognise When You’re Dating As A Single Parent



The joy of Internet dating
Anywhere that you can lay out exactly what you’re looking for and screen people from the comfort of your own sofa with a takeaway is always a winner.We've just launched our own Mother&Baby dating site, too where you'll find lots of like-minded single parents.



‘Is this how it’s done now?’ uncertainty
You’ve been out of the dating game for at least a year and suddenly it’s all about Whatsapp-ing instead of texting and speed dating (yes, really!) over one-on-ones. And that’s all before you have to brush off your flirting skills. Gulp.


Make-up multi-tasking
You’re the queen of juggling date getting-ready with toddler dinnertime. Mascara in one hand, carrot sticks in the other and a load of hairgrips sticking out your mouth. Round of applause, please.


The mini fashion assistant
Forget ASOS for outfit inspiration. Your toddler is hands down the most honest (not to mention cutest) style guru. Although don’t be surprised if most of your shoes/jewellery/lipstick ends up on her. Image: Alamy


The friendly set-up
Hmm, your colleague’s brother’s best friend does look nice in his photo. And it worked for Phoebe and Mike. But perhaps draw the line at that person your sister dumped but thinks would be perfect for you. Image: Getty


Wondering if he could be…
A potential stepdad. Yep, and you thought the boyfriend pressure was heavy when you were a teenager. Image: Alamy


The must-like-kids note to self
Yep, he may look like David Gandy but if he starts moaning about how annoying those kids at the next table are… next! Image: Alamy


You have the best excuse ever…
To get out of a bad date. Oh, so sorry, the babysitter’s poorly. Image: Alamy


The moment you mention you have kids
It could feel natural, it could be awkward, it might even be a ‘Me too!’ so just do it – and breathe. Image: Corbis


The handbag (toy) spill
You get out your wallet mid-date and a plastic Spiderman falls out of your bag. But who cares? It could’ve been a tampon.


Feeling like you
That nice mid-date moment when you realise you haven’t thought about Saturday’s playdate or the nursery run for a whole hour. Image: Corbis

