Getting back into the dating scene after a divorce or relationship split is difficult for most people. For parents, the situation is even more complex. How long "should" a mom or dad wait after the relationship ends to begin dating again?

According to a poll conducted by Parent Soup, one of the largest parenting websites in the U.S., parents ought to give the single life six months to a year before attempting to get involved with someone new. Almost 40% of the 383 parents polled suggested a full year of time alone prior to dating.  Surprisingly, 13% of those polled said parents should wait until the kids are grown to step back into seeing other people.

Here's what people had to say:

• At least one year. Absolutely do not bring them home until you are sure about that person. I don't care if it is even to pick you up.
-- Hammett91 (AOL)

• I would think at least six months.  Give yourself and your kids some time together to try to adjust.
- Apratt8396 (AOL)

• If something should happen that we divorce for any reason, I would not consider dating. If my partner chooses to break that vow, that is his choice, but I believe I am still accountable for my own vow of faithfulness for life. I have my partner for life, and a legal document does not change the fact that I made a vow to remain faithful to him for as long as we are both alive. So, my answer for the dating/divorce question is never!
- samsmommy0 (Web)

• I'm grateful that after six years of being alone I have found love again since I would hate to spend the rest of my life all alone. No one deserves to live like that.
- peekaswine (Web)

Regular visitors to Parent Soup's Dating as a Single Parent message board have come to a group consensus: "You need at least a year to get through the emotional turmoil that follows a divorce. Give yourself time to grieve and heal."

Clearly, parents are concerned about the impact of divorce and dating on their children, as well as their own emotional readiness. Jumping from the fire into the frying pan could be a costly mistake for all.