9 Reasons Why Single Parents Need To Give Online Dating A Chance

© Fizkes

There are plenty of online dating horror stories out there, and these can be enough to put off single parents from giving it a try. However, it really is worth giving online dating a chance in the modern day. There are more people actively using online dating - and more people finding a partner online - than ever before.

So, why can’t you do the same?

Below are 9 key reasons why single parents need to give online dating a chance.

1.  Online dating is mainstream now

There was a time when online dating was only for the most desperate and lonely singles. However, those times are long gone.

When Tinder was created in 2012, millions of young, attractive singles began using it. The app single-handedly made online dating cool. Dozens of copycat apps quickly followed, and the masses began swiping away on these too.

Around three in ten Americans have used a dating app before, rising to 48% of those aged between 18-29. These apps are not just for youngsters though. Some 19% of those aged 50-64 have tried them, as have 13% of those aged 65+, according to a recent poll from Pew Research Center.

Sure, there will be a few oddballs among this huge pool of users, but there are plenty more normals and perhaps a handful of extra-special people who’d be excited to date you.   

2.  Online dating is not just for hookups

It’s a myth that online dating is only for those embracing the modern “hook-up culture.” In fact, a 2019 poll from wedding planning service The Knot suggests it’s now the most common way to meet your spouse. 

The data suggested that 22% of married couples are meeting online, compared to just 19% who meet through friends, 17% at school and 13% at work. 

There are also high-quality online dating services that are designed specifically for those looking for long-term relationships. You’ll usually need to pay a monthly fee to access these dating sites. But you may deem it worth the money in order to filter out those who aren’t taking online dating seriously.

If you are re-entering the dating world after a long break, you might feel that you need to up your game a little to attract your new love interest and keep him or her interested in you physically. Some single parents use sex pheromones, which are natural human scents, to help them to enhance their sexual attractiveness, and generate more attention from prospective partners.

3.  It saves you time

Single parenthood robs you of time and energy. Online dating saves you both.

Instead of taking the time to find a babysitter, spruce yourself up, hit the bars and mingle with other singles, you can drop an online message while you’re watching cartoons with your little one.

4.  Online dating websites have become better at protecting you from scams

Online dating websites are doing a lot more to protect their users from scammers or catfish. A lot of them have implemented photo verification systems, so that members can prove their photos are real. Other websites allow users to connect their social media profiles to add further proof of their identity.

Most have sophisticated systems for detecting dodgy behavior and customer service teams for  reporting abuse. As long as you’ve got your head screwed on, there’s little risk of falling victim to a scam.

This list of the best dating apps of the year from Beyond Ages will help you choose a reputable website, where you can easily find a high-quality partner without falling victim to scams.

5.  It’s mobile

Most of the mainstream online dating services have dedicated mobile apps. That means you can swipe on potential partners whether you’re waiting for your little angels at the school gates or watching them play at the park.

6.  It’s free

The other downside of meeting partners in real life is the financial expense. Perhaps you have to cover the cost of childcare, travel, drinks and cover charges. All with no guarantee of finding someone you like.

On the other hand, some of the most popular online dating apps are completely free to use. Save the money and buy your little one an extra birthday present instead.

7.  You can find your perfect partner with ease

Most online dating apps have search filters to help you find your ideal date with ease. The most basic apps will only let you filter by age, gender and location.

However, there are plenty more sophisticated apps that allow you to filter your searches more aggressively. If you only want to date Christian non-smokers with blonde hair, some websites will allow you to only search for these individuals. 

There are also dozens of niche online dating websites designed for specific demographics. There are even dating sites specifically for single parents looking for other single parents.

As far as niche sites go, it goes even deeper. You can find dating sites for nearly every niche interest. There are sites specifically for dog lovers, for Christians, for younger men seeking older women and even for plus-size singles. And that’s just the tip of the niche online dating iceberg.

 If you can imagine it, there’s probably an online dating website for it.

8.  It’s important to be social

A lot of single parents fall into the trap of only socializing and developing close social relationships with their children. That’s no way to live.

Humans are social creatures. Those without close friends or lovers to confide in are more likely to fall victim to depression. And how are you supposed to take care of your children then?

Even if you don’t feel ready to meet your online match for a date, at least take the opportunity to connect with other adults.

9.  You deserve it!

A lot of single parents feel guilty about dating. Many feel like they should focus primarily on raising their children into smart and confident adults. It’s common to worry about how children will react when you start seeing other people.

Still, don’t ever forget that you need to experience a happy and fulfilling personal life too. We all desire the feeling of being loved by a romantic partner, and there’s no reason why you have to sacrifice that.

Online dating is cheap and convenient enough for you to find a great partner, while fulfilling your parental duties. So, why not make the most of it? You deserve it!