For many families, divorce is a fact of life, and when the moms of girls start new relationships, they may not realize that those girls are watching their every relationship move. Many kids fall into the same relationship patterns as their parents when they get older – for better or for worse. Children who witness domestic violence in the home growing up are far more likely to become engaged in abusive relationships. But when kids are given positive relationship role models growing up, they're more likely to be successful in their own relationships as adults and even as teens when they start dating. So if you're a mom who divorced and is embarking on new relationships, be sure you're setting the right example. Consider the way you get ready for a date and what you wear.

Dressing conservatively and exuding self-confidence is a great way to show your daughter how it's done. Be sure your date comes to the door and meets everyone, if you've deemed it appropriate, and when your date or new boyfriend treats you badly, end it. It's as simple as that. It's important to teach girls how mutual respect works in a relationship and how to resolve conflicts. When you choose to spend your time with someone who is polite and respectful, then you demonstrate a healthy relationship model for your daughter.  Staying true to yourself and who you are as a person is another way to ensure that your daughter never loses sight of her own identity in a relationship. Most important, stay involved when your daughters start to date themselves – it's the best way to keep the lines of communication open and to know what's really going on.