(ThyBlackMan.com) Rules? Yes rules. There are rules when you are single, raising children and dating. These rules are not difficult, deep or hard to understand.
Raising children is a priority for most parents. Even though we are taking care of our children on a daily basis we may sometimes need a short time out from diapers, bottles, crayons and Play Station 3. Regardless of why you are a single parent there will come a time when you will want to date.
When you choose to do so the time may be an awkward one for you and your children or it may not be a problem at all. Whatever the case may be there are a few rules that must be applied.
1. Your Children Come First!
This is the first and most important rule of them all. Never, ever put any man or woman that you are dating before your child or children. Yes I know this is common sense. Some of you may think this does not need to be written 
down. However, some people have a tendency to want a relationship so badly they are more concerned with keeping that man or woman and thinking second about their children. Let them know they are number one and your dating does not change anything.
2. Get To Know Them
Get to know the person that you are dating before you introduce them to your children. Have you met his or her family and friends? Does he/she have a relationship with their children and are they taking responsibility for his own children? With so much information on the internet there are ways to find out some things you may need to. Facebook and Twitter may offer a wealth of information.
3. DO THEY LIKE KIDS?
This is a pretty simple one. Cut and dry. Make sure that they actually like kids. If not then cut them lose from day one. If they don’t care about children they will not care for yours.
4. Talk To Your Kids
When things are serious and number two are in place have a discussion with your kids. Make them aware that you are dating. Then again reassure them that nothing will change and again they are your priority. Remember as a parent you must take into account your child’s emotions. Some may take it with a grain of salt and accept it with no problem, but other children may have a hard time accepting a new man or woman in your life.
5. Include the Kids In a Date Or Two
When you are at the point where you are in a serious and committed relationship, include the children in your dates. If possible at this stage your newly proclaimed other half should include their children as well.
6. No Revolving Doors
There is no need for your children to meet every man and woman that you date. This is not necessary, nor is it in their best interest. It is not good for kids to see different men and women come in and out of your life like a revolving door.
This brings us back number two. Get to know that brother or sister first. We all know that with the dating scene men and women will come and go until we meet the one. So until you are in a committed relationship or at least seriously dating, then it is best that your child not even know about your new dating interest for a while.
Now that you have the rules and the basic 411 on dating as a single parent enjoy the dating scene, but be careful and consider your little ones at home.
Staff Writer; Eleanie Campbell
For more writings by this sista feel free to visit; SoulXPosed2U.