You Might Be Looking Better Than You Think

Let's start with the numbers. On Zoosk, single dads get 22% more first messages than men without kids. That means the dad life actually makes you more dateable online. And 83% of single women say they're cool with dating dads. Why? People link fatherhood to responsibility and maturity.

In the U.S., over 3.3 million men are single dads. That's about 20% of all single-parent households. If you thought you were an outlier, you're not. Some states like Nevada have more single dads than others. And let's keep it real—black single father households are more likely to be below the poverty line than others. That matters when we talk dating budgets and time.

Still, you've got people's attention.

Photo by Josh Willink: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-and-woman-holding-hands-while-walking-at-park-1690732/

Now what?

Pick the Right Place to Swipe

Using the wrong app is like using chopsticks to eat cereal. Here are better options:

• Frolo Dating: Built for single parents. Verified profiles. You can filter by custody setups.

• SingleParentMeet: Focused on parents looking to date other parents. Niche, but useful.

• eharmony: Safer due to profile checks. Appeals to people looking for more than hookups.

• Tinder and Bumble: Still packed with casual situations. But dads under 35 use them the most.

Some apps also include tools to plan around parenting. Frolo has one that helps line up your dating schedule with babysitters. That's useful unless your ideal date is watching "Paw Patrol" reruns.

Dating Isn't One-Size-Fits-All Anymore

You'll meet people who are into all kinds of things. Some want something serious. Others are fine with casual connections. Then you have folks who are more specific—like those into poly relationships, open setups, or say they're dating a sugar baby. It's not your lane? Cool. But don't be shocked when it shows up on someone's profile.

As a single dad, the goal isn't to judge. It's to figure out what works for you and your life. You've got a kid, a schedule, and hopefully some non-negotiables. Keep your standards, stay curious, and know the dating pool is wide.

Keep the Kids Out Your Bio (At First)

It's tempting to slap "#girldad" on your profile and think it's your personality. Slow down.

A lot of men hide their parenthood. In one study, 83% of dating app users said they don't mention kids at first. 

That doesn't mean you have to lie. But leading with it can scare off people who aren't open-minded. A good rule? Say something casual that hints, like mentioning Saturday soccer games. Save the deeper talks for real conversations—not bios.

And don't post pics of your kids. They didn't sign up to be your profile wingmen.

Set Rules for Yourself, Not Just the Dates

Don't bring random people into your home. Give it at least 6 months before introducing anyone to your kids. That's real advice from experts who've watched this play out badly.

Also, dating as a single dad means juggling time. Most dads go on dates during custody off-days. That's smart. Use that space for uninterrupted focus. If you can't focus for more than two hours without checking your phone, the timing might be off.

Low Budget? No Problem

Raising kids is expensive. Child support adds up, averaging around $560 a month. Most single dads don't want to shell out $100 for a meal with someone they'll ghost in two days. Here's the fix: more creative meetups. Some dads bring lunch to local parks where their kids can play while they chat casually with someone. Keep it safe and public.

If that sounds weird, it's no worse than a Zoom date. And lots of people prefer laid-back over polished dinner routines anyway.

It's Okay to Want Something For Yourself

Some people will judge you. They'll say your focus should only be on your kids. That dating is "selfish." Those people are wrong.

You're human. Wanting love or fun or someone to talk to at night doesn't make you a bad parent. What makes the difference is how you handle it.

Therapists report that 68% of single dads use counseling to get through guilt around dating. That's common. Let it motivate you to date smarter. Be honest. Be thoughtful. But don't throw yourself away because someone online thinks dads should be monks.

Before You Log Off...

You don't owe anyone explanations, but you owe yourself peace. Online dating can turn into a weird social experiment, but it works when you use it with sense.

Set clear boundaries. Don't ignore red flags. Don't burn your energy chasing people who don't even like kids.

You're not a project. You're just a parent who wants to meet someone. That's allowed. Start there.