06:26
Faizan
Only 3.5 percent of the 18 million children living in single-family homes live with the father, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Although this is a relatively small number, fathers of babies still make up a significant segment of the dating world. Whether he is divorced, separated or simply a baby daddy, if you are dating a man with a baby, you're facing a greater challenge than if he had no children.
Be flexible. Fathers are not always able to keep dates. When children are ill, or require the presence of their father at a function, the time or location—or even the date itself—may need to be altered.
Be open to bringing the baby on activities. A babysitter no-show may throw the date into turmoil, if either individual is not open to occasionally bringing the baby along on a date. Bring along baby toys and age-appropriate books to show your understanding of the situation.
Offer to have the baby come along on a date to a child-friendly (and age-appropriate) location. Research places in your area that offer interesting activities for both the baby and dating adults. Even if the father has not asked about bringing the child along, your offer may lead to the two of you spending more time together, if he knows you are okay with him bringing the baby along occasionally.
Do not discuss the mother of the baby. This is a no-win dating situation. If the man brings up any details, simply nod and change the subject. Avoid offering your opinion or advice as much as possible.
Don't offer parenting advice, even when it appears the man may be going about child rearing in a manner that contradicts your experience and background. Listen to any comments he may make about his parenting situation, but do not become involved or take sides in any parenting disputes. The man may want to chat about parenting situations, but keep the discussion on a hypothetical level, without critiquing specific actions.
Be considerate of special days. Family holidays are a time that the man may feel he should be with the baby. Respect his feelings, and select a different day for the date.
Be considerate of timing. The baby may require a nap at a specified time that conflicts with a dating activity. The child may also need to be in bed at a certain hour that requires the date to end early. Respect these needs. These actions will put less stress on the father and allow him to date, while meeting the needs of his child at the same time.
Be flexible. Fathers are not always able to keep dates. When children are ill, or require the presence of their father at a function, the time or location—or even the date itself—may need to be altered.
Be open to bringing the baby on activities. A babysitter no-show may throw the date into turmoil, if either individual is not open to occasionally bringing the baby along on a date. Bring along baby toys and age-appropriate books to show your understanding of the situation.
Offer to have the baby come along on a date to a child-friendly (and age-appropriate) location. Research places in your area that offer interesting activities for both the baby and dating adults. Even if the father has not asked about bringing the child along, your offer may lead to the two of you spending more time together, if he knows you are okay with him bringing the baby along occasionally.
Do not discuss the mother of the baby. This is a no-win dating situation. If the man brings up any details, simply nod and change the subject. Avoid offering your opinion or advice as much as possible.
Don't offer parenting advice, even when it appears the man may be going about child rearing in a manner that contradicts your experience and background. Listen to any comments he may make about his parenting situation, but do not become involved or take sides in any parenting disputes. The man may want to chat about parenting situations, but keep the discussion on a hypothetical level, without critiquing specific actions.
Be considerate of special days. Family holidays are a time that the man may feel he should be with the baby. Respect his feelings, and select a different day for the date.
Be considerate of timing. The baby may require a nap at a specified time that conflicts with a dating activity. The child may also need to be in bed at a certain hour that requires the date to end early. Respect these needs. These actions will put less stress on the father and allow him to date, while meeting the needs of his child at the same time.
Posted in: Singles & Couples
