How to Introduce Kids to a Date

Dating after a divorce or death of a spouse can be tricky for any parent. The children may be at a sensitive age and not want to see you with anyone else. You must keep their feelings and mixed emotions in mind when you choose to introduce them to a date.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Wait until after several dates to introduce the kids to a date. It is not necessary to introduce the children to each person that you go on a date with. Only let them meet when you feel that the time is right.
2. Talk to the kids beforehand. Let them know that you plan to date now and that you would like to introduce them to the new person in your life.
3. Keep things casual. If you make a big deal out of the event, it may not go well. Instead arrange for a quick bite to eat at a pizza parlor with the kids and your date.
4. Introduce the date to the children as your new friend. In the beginning, you don't want to put a label on your relationship.
5. Restrain yourself at first. For the first meeting, it is not wise to show too much affection between you and your date. This may confuse the kids and make them resent this new person in your life.

Tips & Warnings

• If you sense resistance from your date or the children, it would probably be best to postpone the meeting. You want all parties to be ready before you make the introduction.
• Don't be discouraged if the introduction does not go well. Over time, the relationship between your date and the children will improve.