Essential Tips on Surviving Step-Parenting and Blended Families Nothing cuts to the core of a step-parent’s heart than hearing “you’re not my parent!” Parenting is hard, but when you become a step-parent it’s a whole new level of parenting. You may agree to help raise someone else’s child, or your new spouse may agree to raise your child, but in … Read More
Young Adults and Financial Independence
Is your young adult taking too long to become financially independent? Did you know one-third of adults between the ages of 18-34 live with their parents? Children are relying on their parents for far longer than did previous generations. At their age, many of us couldn’t wait to get out of our parents homes and be independent. Of course you … Read More
Be a Quality (Divorced) Parent – Living Apart From Your Children
Be a Quality (Divorced) Parent Especially when you live far away from your Children After a divorce, one of the parents may find it is necessary to relocate due to getting away from old memories or a change in job status. It is still possible to be a quality parent when you live far away from your children. Make sure … Read More
Step Parents as Role-Models
In The 4-1-1 on Step Parenting I explain what type of role you play in a step child’s life. It is only natural that you want your step children to love you, respect you and obey you. The only thing you may be certain of is you feel out-of-place and uncertain of what your role in this new family unit … Read More
Step Families and Holidays
Step Families and Holidays A step parent who has particular holiday traditions from the rest of the family, especially a step parent with no child of their own, can feel left out of the celebration. All family traditions have force. It is vital for everyone to be considered when planning holidays. Things you should consider when planning holidays: Who is … Read More
Tips for Successful Co-Parenting
Tips for Successful Co-Parenting Parenting is a joy, and something we do simply because we love our children. In a perfect world, it would also be easy. Unfortunately, things can get complicated – especially when we are co-parenting our children with an ex we don’ get along with. There are, however, many tips you can put to use that will … Read More
How to Help Your Children Create Strong Sibling Bonds
Tips for an Established Family or Step Family Siblings are one of the greatest gifts that life can bring our children. The relationship between siblings is one of the deepest relationships they will ever experience. Through fighting and teamwork, they will build a complex and amazing bond that lasts longer than most other relationships throughout their life. What can you … Read More
Divorce, Guilt, Loyalty & Holidays
The more adults in the family, the more confusion and chaos there is in terms of holiday logistics. When step children partner up and start their own families, the number of adults who are not exactly related and who have their own family holiday traditions will grow incrementally. Talk about logistical nightmares! Take on the attitude of “the more the … Read More
Step Parents and Celebrating Holidays
Holidays can be brutal for the children of divorced parents. Kids often feel incomplete. If the children spend the time with you and your partner, they will no doubt feel torn about not being with poor Mom or Dad. Try to respect the fact the kids are thinking of their other biological parent and their nostalgia for the past is … Read More
(Step) Father’s Day is Coming
Throughout the media, stepfathers have been portrayed as abusive and non-caring. Stepfathers often complain people assume this stereotype and automatically view the relationship as a disaster waiting to happen. To avoid the stereotype, here are some suggestions: 1. Keep your expectations in check. Unrealistic expectations will only feed your frustration. Instead, keep your focus on patience and open communication. 2. … Read More