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

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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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Susie is available for a free 15 minute consultation, and has a great blog:
www.amindful-life.co.uk