Although it can be difficult to admit in this kid-obsessed world, few girls dream of meeting a Prince Charming who already has a couple little princes and princesses in tow. But these days, it’s not so unusual to find yourself falling for someone who’s already a parent.
In the end, it’s an individual decision that no one else can make for you. Dating a dad requires a level of maturity and patience that not all of us are able to muster up for a new boyfriend. On the other hand, if you really love the man, you may find that the fact that he has a family holds some sweet surprises along the way. Take a look at some of the pros and cons you might want to consider before getting involved with a parent.
Don’t date a dad…
If you need to be #1.
No matter how strongly he feels for you, his kids will always come first. We don’t mean you have to settle for a man who doesn’t show you affection or take you out, but there are certain practical issues that even the most romantic dad will have to deal with on a regular basis. Kids mean school, doctor’s trips, and hiring babysitters, even at the most inconvenient times.
If you can’t handle the ex-factor.
Think dealing with your last boyfriend’s smokin’ hot ex-girlfriend was bad enough? If your new man’s ex is the mother of his children, he is permanently linked to her, and that means you are too “ no matter how crazy or interfering or unfriendly she is. And don’t even think about trying any demands about limiting communication between them “ any remnants of jealousy you’re holding on to will have to go out the window.
If you’re not sure how much you like him.
Ok, so what if the kids aren’t the problem? What if they’re the cutest things that the playground has ever seen and they adore you “ and worse “ you adore them, but you find your feelings waning for the man in the picture? Kids bring breakups to a whole new level, even when they aren’t yours.
Do date a dad…
If you’re thinking long-term.
If you want children of your own some day, seeing your man interact with his kids lets you get a glimpse into your future with him. If you can see that he’s a good father, you already know more or less what life would be like if you took the plunge with him. Plus, unlike some other men, the walls are down when it comes to bringing up the question of more kids in the future.
If you can take it in stride.
Although a man with children takes your romance off the fairy-tale path, sometimes it’s worth getting a bit of a reality check. More than anything, children are a living, breathing reminder that this man had a meaningful past with someone other than you. Let’s face it though “ most men have a past, but you just don’t usually know about it in such a concrete way.
If you think it’s true love.
Dating a man with kids is definitely a challenge, but what if your relationship is worth it? In the end, taking the risk could pay off big time, for everyone.
I think dating, when you love and care for someone you accept them. All the good and bad, and their bad usually isn’t even bad. While I understand that children come first, so should your happiness as an adult and person. If you are not able to have any other relationship besides the rocky one with your ex, then how would you children ever see what a happy loving relationship really looks like? It is important for all of us to be the best us possible, even more so when there are children involved. Parents are children’s first role models, your success in all things can alter their success.
I think dating, when you love and care for someone you accept them. All the good and bad, and their bad usually isn’t even bad. While I understand that children come first, so should your happiness as an adult and person. If you are not able to have any other relationship besides the rocky one with your ex, then how would you children ever see what a happy loving relationship really looks like? It is important for all of us to be the best us possible, even more so when there are children involved. Parents are children’s first role models, your success in all things can alter their success.
SINGLE DADS SHOULD DATE SINGLE MOMS!!!
SINGLE DADS SHOULD DATE SINGLE MOMS!!!