Finding a partner with a child—survey shows good prospects for single parents

Many singles find it particularly difficult to find a partner when they have children. However, their concerns are unfounded. A Germany-wide survey of LemonSwan members revealed that the majority of singles looking for a partner are open to a partner with children. Around one in four LemonSwan singles have children themselves. You can read more exciting results from the survey in this article.

One in three singles feels disadvantaged when looking for a partner with a child

Around 2.6 million single mothers and fathers live in Germany. One third of single parents feel that they have fewer chances of finding a partner online if they mention their child in their profile. Younger mothers and fathers between the ages of 20 and 35 in particular feel disadvantaged when looking for a partner online. However, hiding their children is still out of the question for them. Almost all respondents (96%) remain honest and include their children in their profile.

And rightly so, because LemonSwan singles are child-friendly! For less than 10 percent, having a child would be a deal-breaker when looking for a partner. In addition, only 7 percent of single parents have ever experienced contact being broken off on LemonSwan when their children were mentioned.

The concern of single parents is therefore unfounded, at least in most cases.

When is the right time to introduce the children?

An important decision that must be made when looking for a partner with a child: When should I introduce my new partner? For LemonSwan singles, the most important factor is the age of the children. While 55% of single parents feel that their children are old enough to talk openly and honestly with them about finding a partner, around a third still consider them too young and therefore do not actively involve them in the topic.

Sooner or later, however, all of the singles surveyed feel it is important to introduce their children to their new partner. Around a third, however, only want to involve their children once the online acquaintance has developed into a serious relationship. For another 20 percent, on the other hand, it is important to involve the children from the outset.

Singles without children are surprisingly open. Everyone wants to meet the children after a few dates at the latest, with male singles being slightly more open than female singles in this regard. However, the majority (70%) leave this decision to the single parents.

Finding a partner as a single parent – children have a say

Regardless of when children are involved in the search for a partner, their opinion carries a lot of weight for parents. Around one in four people who are looking for a partner while raising children have experienced conflict and rejection from their children. Singles with older children in particular have had this experience. Fifteen percent of all singles surveyed have even ended a relationship because of their children. However, most believe that they trust their instincts and can judge well which partner is right for their children and which is not.

Particularly interesting: one in ten single parents on LemonSwan was even encouraged by their own children to look for a partner online.

Conclusion: many singles want a partner with children

Looking for a partner with children can sometimes be a bit of a challenge, but at least you don't have to worry about your chances. Our survey actually revealed the opposite: many singles want to start a family and are explicitly looking for a partner with children.

For single mothers and fathers, online dating agencies offer a great opportunity to meet like-minded singles. Thanks to comprehensive search filters, you will only be suggested singles who have the same ideas about family and children as you.

And best of all: for single parents (and students and trainees), a premium membership with LemonSwan is 100% free!

*Only applies to single parents and students with an annual gross income of less than €35,000.