Can kids help single parents find love again?

Shortly after my husband passed, my daughter (then about 10 years old) asked me, "Are you going to get married again?"

The idea of dating someone new was the furthest thing from my mind at that moment, but I was curious about why she’d asked if I want to remarry.

"Do you want me to get married again?" I asked my daughter back.

"That’s up to you. I guess you could marry Chris Evans," she intoned.

Which is a lovely thought, but we all know that hasn’t come true.

Her question made me think if it was time to explore the possibility of finding love again.

It’s natural for a child to want happiness for their parents now that they’re older, and maybe single again.

Supporting them in finding love and happiness once more seems like a heartfelt way to express their love and care for them.

Perhaps in ways that don't include offering up hot Hollywood stars.

After all, love and companionship can make life more enjoyable for everyone in the family.

However, it's essential to approach this journey with sensitivity.

So what would you need to consider when you’re encouraging your single parent to get out and about in the dating world again?

1. Understand their feelings

It’s important to initiate a heartfelt, open and honest conversation with your parent.

While you might feel it’s the right time for them to start dating again, they may harbour feelings of apprehension or fear about beginning a new chapter with someone new.

Maybe the thought of getting to know someone all over again seems daunting, and some may even feel like it’s not necessary at this stage in their life.

You’ll need to understand their feelings, and then address the concerns they may have.

Assure them that your support is unwavering, you’re there for them, and that you want to see them happy and fulfilled.

2. Recognise the time gap

While some may liken dating to riding a bicycle (in that you never forget how), getting back into the dating scene can be quite different from your parent’s previous experiences.

This could be an ideal opportunity to share your insights and experiences in dating.

Talk to them about online dating or age-gap relationships. Tell them what can they do and expect, and maybe even tricks you’ve learnt about communication, with maybe a crash course on demystifying the use of emojis if necessary.

It’s almost a whole new world to them, so they’ll need your support and guidance.

3. Dealing with technology

Online dating is a popular way to meet any like-minded partners, especially for those who might have limited social circles.

Help your parent in creating a profile on dating apps or sites, and crafting a bio that reflects their personality – one they’re comfortable with and which you think might garner some interest.

Together, set up filters to refine potential matches that would be the most captivating for your parent.

You could even make this process into a fun activity with "swiping" sessions as you go through profiles together, so it doesn’t seem as daunting to them in the beginning.

4. Embrace new interests

Encourage your single parent to pick up new hobbies to expand their social circles and boost their self-confidence.

This could be an opportunity for them to explore interests they've longed to pursue, such as taking tango dance lessons, or indulge in an activity that they felt they never had time for previously, like mahjong.

It’s also the ideal situation to spend more time together so it doesn’t seem as intimidating to your parent – start off together until they can find their own group to continue on with.

5. Celebrate progress

Did they find a person they’re keen to meet? Great, that’s fantastic!

Made it to the first date and had an amazing time? Wonderful, keep it up!

It may seem a little cheerleader-ish to keep celebrating all the little things, but small achievements are still important steps to boost their confidence and add positivity to the dating experience again.

At the same time, it could bring up a lot of emotions, which brings us to the next point.

6. Provide a listening ear

The emotional challenges of dating again can be daunting, whether or not those initial dates have gone well.

Perhaps they’re also finding it frustrating trying to deal with getting to know people all over again.

Be there to listen, offer encouragement, and encourage your parent that they proceed at a pace that they are comfortable with.

7. Respect boundaries

Re-entering the dating world can be a gradual process.

It’s tough getting back into the dating game, and maybe your parent will take a while to warm up to the idea.

That’s perfect alright, and they just need your support as they’re trying to figure all things out.

The last thing you’d want to do is to push them into uncomfortable situations that make them even less inclined to try anymore.

Patience is key.

At the end of the day, supporting your single parent’s journey back into the world of dating is a meaningful expression of love.

Remember to be patient and understanding, and prioritise their happiness.

Love has its own timeline, and your role is to be with them as they rediscover love.

Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube.