Adult relationships are rarely simple and they become even more complicated when there are children involved. Dating too soon, while a child is still grieving the loss of a parent, can cause unnecessary distress, while not dating at all can cause both parent and child to doubt that relationships can be healthy. In the end, each parent must know himself or herself and their children and make decisions that balance the needs and feelings of everyone involved.

Single parents need a social life of their own, and eventually many find themselves ready to start dating. When you introduce your children to a new friend, you may be met with indifference, outright hostility or the opposite extreme. Some children constantly try to find a replacement mommy or daddy to fill the void in their parent's life as well as their own. Although it is normal for a child to cling to a parent and be jealous of anything that diverts that parent's attention, single parents can ease the transition into new relationships for themselves and their children by trying the following:

• If your children are upset or hostile, postpone discussion of sensitive issues until both you and your children have had a chance to calm down.
• Establish firm parent-child boundaries. You can acknowledge your child's feelings but maintain your authority as a parent.
• Let children know you value their opinion and acknowledge their feelings.
• When appropriate, incorporate your child's opinions and suggestions into a plan that works for both of you.