Single Parents: If you have been preparing the children all along for the inevitable time when dating started, they might be better adjusted. And again they might not. More about singles and single parents dating:
|
Dating for Single Parents Karen's two small (ages four and six) children changed their personality each time she had a date. Normally happy and placid, they became demanding and masters of volatile temper tantrums. Ken's son was as rude when a woman was around as he was polite when a woman wasn't around. Marty had an asthma attack before almost every date Mom planned. Several times the attack was so severe he had to be rushed to the emergency room. Mary completely rebelled when Dad starting seeing Kathy. Beth's son Lawrence became sulky and withdrawn whenever a person showed up for more than two or three dates. Kristie's eight-year-old son "accidentally" hit two dates in the shin with a baseball bat. One accident, yes; two accidents, probably not! Conflicting emotions are normal when important changes occur in anyone's life. Your child in no exception. Some children react by temper tantrums, some get sick, others pout, sulk, rebel, or even get mean. All of these reactions are normal, and a cry for your help and understanding. If you have been preparing the children all along for the inevitable time when dating started, they might be better adjusted. And again they might not. The following are a few suggestions you might use to restore order in your home when dating starts: 1. Start by allowing your children to express their feelings and fears. Just listen and acknowledge their feelings. 2. Don't pressure them to like the person you are dating. Let time take its course. 3. Do explain that even if they don't like this person, he/she is your friend, and as such they must be respectful and polite. |
|
