mum
March 29, 2024

Recomposed family: what place for the step-parent?

For the step-parent to easily find his place within the family the biological parent must first and foremost set the rules of the game with his child: "You do not have to love him but you have to respect him". So, Mom's mate is not a friend but a caring adult you can count on.

For teens, it's hard to admit that dad can love another woman than mom. On the other hand, toddlers who have already experienced a breakup, may fear that another will happen again. We understand better why they do not necessarily want to make efforts to welcome the step-parent.

During the first meetings, it is better to put everyone at ease by trying to organize these meetings in a neutral place such as a restaurant or a park.

At the end of the first interview, no need to question the children: "So, how do you find it?" Although they have been in the forefront of divorce, they are not marriage counselors. To each his place.

To better integrate the new adult into the family, the biological parent must always defend him in case of conflict with children and not contradict him in front of them, at the risk of discrediting him and make him a victim found for adolescents in need of limits.

As a matter of authority, most in-laws prefer not to interfere. Everyone takes care of his own little ones. However, the rules of the house must be the same for everyone. Every adult must also take care not to favor his children over others.

Blended Family: Role Of The Step-parent (March 2024)