The First Step to Stepparenting

Congratulations on becoming a stepparent. It may be daunting to think of being a “parent” to children you didn’t conceive, but once you get in the swing of things you’ll find it’s one of the most rewarding changes you will experience in your life.

Over the next 30 days, you will:

• Establish clear parenting roles with your spouse.
• Find ways to bond with your stepchildren.
• Make friends with the ex-spouse—yes, really.
• Begin creating a happy, blended family.

You’re being asked to step into the roles of new spouse and parent simultaneously, and that can be quite difficult. You know it won’t always be easy. But, you’re wise enough to know that by gathering your resources and learning the tools now, you’ll be able to make this transition smoother for everyone.

On this first day, try to get out of the mindset of calling your stepchild a “stepchild” in his or her presence. From a child’s perspective, that word can sometimes have a negative connotation and you don’t want him or her to feel inadequate or out of place from the start. Instead, refer to your stepchild by name.

DID YOU KNOW? According to The Stepfamily Foundation, more than 1,300 stepfamilies are formed everyday in the United States.