Solo parenting: INTRODUCING A NEWCOMER

How to acquaint your child with that special new someone in your life

You’ve done it – you’ve only gone and found someone you actually quite like! Now come a few more hurdles to jump… this parenting malarkey is anything but simple. Finding a new relationship is such an exciting experience. At the same time, as a parent, you need to make wise choices to support your child and protect your bond as you navigate this process.

Whether you are introducing a new partner to your eight-month-old baby, a fully grown adult child or anything in between, it’s not necessarily going to be plain sailing. As with every major life change, there will need to be some serious conversations, lots of understanding and a whole load of love!

When and how to introduce your new partner to your offspring can be tricky and it will be different for everyone. When you’re caught in the exciting, intoxicating throes of a new relationship, you may not always be thinking entirely wisely or rationally. Give yourself time to move past the exciting early days of romance, lust and fairy tales before you begin making plans that involve your child.

What is important is that you feel you and your child are ready to have a new partner on the scene (but remember: when you are ready and when your child are ready might be two different things).