There are too many extra issues that single parents have to go through to go out dating that single people with no children can't even begin to comprehend. Sleepovers, visitations, school schedules, homework support and the list goes on. Doesn't then it make sense that online dating has become so very popular among single parents!

However, just as with dating in the real world, there are very real safety issues that you should consider before embarking on a cyberspace romance with your new soul mate. You may well be a responsible parent, but that does not make you immune to internet dangers. Follow these sensible precautions to ensure you find yourself an online romance and not a cyber stalker:

* Phone numbers. There is a very good reason why dating sites recommend not giving out your phone number too soon. Depending on where you live, vast amounts of information can be obtained from your phone number. If the friendship goes belly up do you really want to have to change your numbers because you are being annoyed by some deranged stalker? Do you want them annoying you at work? Be honest, would you hand over your telephone number to a complete stranger you weren't sure of in a bar? At least you have actually seen first hand the stranger in the bar.

* Financial situation. If you are wealthy, lucky you. Don't go advertising it while online dating though. Just like the real world there are also plenty of other single parents who would like to hook up with some extra cash. Be careful what you divulge. Careless details about expensive vacations and similar may well be giving away too many clues initially. Do you want to be liked for you or for your cash? There are plenty of unscrupulous individuals masquerading as singles who are looking to prey on singles with money.

* Personal details. If you don't want to have to relocate, giving out your street address or work details too soon can backfire. If you live in a small town be wary of inadvertently mentioning you work for the baker or live in the lilac shingled house. It won't be too hard for the other person to suss you out if they wanted to.

* Protect your children. Sadly, there are some pedophiles out there pretending to be single dads and moms to prey on your children. The fact that you are a single parent is enough information to start with. Be a little gender and age non specific when mentioning your children. You should become a little suspicious if there is more interest in your kids than you and it doesn't matter how many children you have. Do not provide any photos of your children.

* First date safety. Just like your mother told you when you first started dating "Don't be getting in any cars with strangers." Just because you may see yourself as a parent first and foremost does not make you immune to dangerous strangers. When meeting up with new dates, do so in well lit public and busy places. Lunches can be good. Tell someone where you are going and with whom. Be sure to have a contingency plan in case your date turns out to resemble the motel owner from "Psycho". Trust your instincts. If they creep you out, move on politely and quickly.

* Read the fine print. As with anything else you purchase over the Net, it is always a sensible idea to read the small print. Are there monthly fees? What do you actually get for your money? Will it cost you more to contact those you fancy? Is the dating site reputable? Using a credit card with legitimate sites is no more dangerous than using it in a retail store. There is information stating that today, it's safer? Do your homework before handing over the plastic.

Meeting a new partner can be effectively achieved through online dating. However, you should be mindful to keep you and your children safe by following basic online dating safety.

For the single parent looking for romance, single parent dating websites have many advantages. For those looking to save some extra time, this site reviews dating sites for you allowing you to select the one that is best for your needs.