FINAL THROUGHTS

This is our sixth and final podcast on stepfamilies.  We have barely touched the surface, but hopefully we have raised awareness of the need to prepare.  I will bullet point a few final thoughts  and maybe we will revisit some of these points in future podcasts.

• Maintaining marital unity is primary.
• Lower expectations so they are realistic.
• Stepsiblings are not biologically related. It is important to maintain standards of modesty in the home so there are no temptations.  Be aware of possible attraction with stepchildren and expect them to behave appropriately.
• As much as possible, make changes slowly. Try to allow everyone to adjust to a few changes before introducing new ones.
• Sometimes not only birth order changes but also roles of children change. It impacts children even if they are not aware of it.  Children miss the role they played with their biological parent before the remarriage.
• As much as possible maintain a cordial relationship with an ex so children don’t have to take sides.
• Don’t badmouth your ex or their new partner and allow your children to like the stepparent married to your ex so they don’t struggle with loyalties.
• Always extend grace, even when life isn’t fair. Focus on what’s best for the children rather than on trying to achieve fairness for yourself.
• Seek to grow in your stepfamily. Read books, attend courses and look for a mentor stepfamily couple to encourage and guide you in your family.

For more resources check out familylifeblended.com