Single Parents: It is important to let your children know that this person will not be a replacement for their other parent. More about singles and single parents dating:
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Introduce a new person in your life very casually. The best way is
to introduce your new partner to your child(ren) much as you would introduce a same-gender
friend: "Pat is going to the movies with us today." Avoid words like relationship, love, dating, etc. and avoid telling the children how much Pat has looked forward to meeting them. Keep it informal with as little stress as possible. Try to choose an excursion that requires a minimum of conversation such as a movie or walk in the park. If that is not possible, start with a short excursion such as a trip to your local sandwich shop or local park with kids' play ground. When that person has been around your children a few times or the children know you are seeing him/her at other times, you need to discuss the nature of your relationship. Children are any or all of the following: 1. Scared of losing you. Prepare to add weeks or months of patience because, again, this is a situation that will not rush. Have all lines of communication open between you and your child(ren). Let them discuss any reservations he/she has openly and fully. Children should not have to conceal jealousy or fear of abandonment. They also should not think that having certain negative feelings about you and/or your new partner is bad or shameful. It is also important to let your children know that this person will not be a replacement for their other parent. And even point out that they do not have to like this person, only show the same respect to your friends as they would expect you to show to their friends. Also, have all lines of communication open between you and your new partner. 1. Set goals for his/her introduction to the children together and review them
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