29: Step-children. Coping, and thriving, with a blended family.

What do you think of this episode? Do you have any topics you'd like me to cover?

Having your own child can feel like an overwhelming responsibility at times,
but when you become a step-parent it's even more complicated. 

The child may feel resentful because they didn't ask for a new parent, their biological parents are likely to have issues with each other, and then there's our own needs in a new relationship. 

Ultimately, step-parents can offer a really wonderful addition to the lives of our bonus children. How we go about it can make all the difference.

Given that both of us are step-parents, it seemed like a great topic to discuss after Kathryn reached out to us to ask if we'd help with the situation in her home.

In this episode we cover the critical importance of: 

• Bonding with the step-child. 
• Forming a stable and united front with your new partner. 
• Taking care not to take on the role of disciplining your bonus child but providing solid back-up for their biological parent. 
• Making sure that your own needs are understood and met.

 
RESOURCES:
https://www.parents.com/parenting/dynamics/how-to-discipline-child-step-parent/
 https://psychcentral.com/blog/6-ways-to-bond-with-your-stepchildren#1
https://www.empoweringparents.com/article/my-blended-family-wont-blend-part-ii-what-to-do-when-your-stepkids-disrespect-you/
https://www.care.com/c/bonding-with-stepchildren-7-tips-for-buildin/
https://www.moms.com/stepparents-advise-20-ways-to-bond-with-stepchildren/
https://www.parents.com/parenting/dynamics/how-to-discipline-child-step-parent/

BOOKS: Jenna Korf, Skirts At War: Beyond Divorced Mom/Stepmom Conflict. 

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I don't have medical training so please seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping.

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