This is from one single mom who often enjoys a night out. Dating a single parent is a lot like dating someone with a professional career. We often have good boundaries, aren’t clingy, and either don’t mind taking things slow commitment wise or going without commitment entirely. My top four pieces of advice are -

Make plans ahead of time.

Single parents usually have a lot on their plate, and your offer of a last minute movie or night out throws a curveball. Even if the kids are old enough to not need a babysitter there are other issues to juggle. If she does need a babysitter at the last minute, offer to pitch in because short notice babysitting usually isn’t cheap. That leads me to point #2 -

Offer to split any childcare fees, or show appreciation if a relative or friend is doing the babysitting for free.

That could be in the form of bringing a movie, games, or snacks for the kids. It will win points with the relative or friend, and splitting childcare will make it easier for her to afford a night out. (You don’t think women is cheap for dating, do you? Have you SEEN the price of good hair care items lately?)

Let her know where you see things going as soon as possible.

This is important when dating a single mother because her free time is at a premium. She may be fine with a casual, no strings attached relationship, or she may be hoping for something that could become long term. Getting it out in the open lets you both drop a lot of the “dating game” rules.

Respect her parenting decisions.

It can be a great thing to be invited to spend time with her kids. But chumming up to them too much, or trying to assume the role of “authoritative male” can be a very bad thing. She probably doesn’t want another child manage (although some women seem to enjoy “mothering” their men!). Contradicting or questioning a mom in front of her kids, whether or not you’re dating, is in poor taste. However, if the relationship may turn long term it is very important that she is open to discussing parenting styles - in private.