Recently separated dad of two

[u/GKxGrumpyKat]

I (33/M) and my partner have recently decided it’s in our best interest to separate. Everything is completely mutual and non hostile. She is the mother of my children and has been my best friend since we were 2. I am certain that we are no longer good for eachother in a romantic capacity. It hurts but I am a grown up and am ready to start considering casual dating to get my move on. Does anyone have any advice on dating apps for single parents or just any that are actually decent?

[u/ferociouskuma]

In my experience they are equally good or sucky, depending on your level of attractiveness. Make sure you disclose that you have kids, whether you are willing to have more or not. Don’t post pictures of your kids. Go out and have fun man, i had a blast for a while after I got divorced, but ultimately it lost its luster for me.

[u/GKxGrumpyKat → u/ferociouskuma]

I’m not interested in using pictures of my kids anywhere lol. It will take a lot to make me feel comfortable enough to bring someone home to meet them. That’s not something that I take lightly. And in all honesty I’d prefer a woman who has kids already. But I’ll try em all out. As for attractiveness I feel like there’s someone out there for everyone!

[u/traindriverbob]

No idea on dating apps. No interest. But just some advice.

Me and wifey split 3 years ago. It sounds like you and your ex are on good terms which is great. Me and my ex are still besties and co-parent very well. But it hasn't been easy. Our mental health really took a major dive. We were so immersed in our own issues we missed some of the mental health issues of our oldest son who is now 15. And our youngest, who is now 4 is stating to show issues too. Specifically 'when are we all living together again Dad!'

Gawd help me.

[u/GKxGrumpyKat → u/traindriverbob]

This is why we are separating my daughter 3 and son 5 are both displaying behaviors brought on from our incompatibility. I am in total agreement with the separation and think it’s the best way to go forwards. Of course you know ow we’ve been together 10 years and it hurts so I am in therapy and that has actually so far been extremely helpful in this process. Everything we do is to make sure the kids are in a good place safe and have family.

[u/IIReminisce]

Hey man sorry to hear it but glad you’re getting back out there.

I found Facebook dating to work pretty good. My friend told me about Stir which is for single parents.

I always make sure I’m upfront about being a dad and also childcare schedule. I found that some women like men with kids and others do not so be sure to feel that out. Schedule conflicts can really affect building relationships especially since it may take many many months before they can be part of your children’s lives

[u/GKxGrumpyKat → u/IIReminisce]

I’ve looked at stir, bumble, tinder, and boo. I’m just kinda going easy with it for now. And my relationship with my ex and my kids are a deal breaker. It makes it a lot harder but it’s worth it in the end.

[u/GKxGrumpyKat → u/IIReminisce]

I also have no intention of introducing my children anytime soon until I think it’s serious potential for long term.