Any kind of dating can have its downsides.  You will have to put yourself out there and face risks such as rejection and embarrassing dates.  Single parent dating can be even more difficult.  It can be hard explaining your situation and dealing with the baggage you may have from your previous relationships.

1. Don't Forget it's Supposed to be Fun!

You need to make sure you are not taking online dating too seriously.  Everything about online single parent dating is designed to make things much easier and less stressful.  You can spend as long as you want looking at other people's profiles before you decide to contact them.  You don't even have to worry about meeting people in person for the first time. You can get to know them online first and this will make things a lot easier if you do decide to take the friendship to the next level.

Taking the whole thing too seriously can be depressing.  Of course you are not going to hit it off with everyone you meet through online single parent dating websites.  You need to take a relaxed viewpoint and not worry if someone decides they don't want to meet you or take things further.

2.  Stay Safe

One issue with online single parent dating is that you will only be meeting someone's virtual persona at first.  This could differ dramatically from how they are in real life.  It is far too easy to pretend to be someone you are not when you are chatting online.

If you do decide to meet an online date for the first time then make sure you take action to keep yourself safe:
Meet in a public place that has transport links close by.  This means if you want to leave early you can do so quickly and easily.
Always tell a friend or relative where you are going on your date and give them an estimated time for when you are going to be home.
A lunch time first date can be much more relaxed and also safer than a late night one.
Don't get drunk.  This can seriously affect your judgement and you may end up making decisions you regret afterwards.