Connecting With Your Stepkids Make a Fast First Impression - To take the pressure off the initial meeting, make it a quick hello and avoid long dinners or giving expensive gifts. Over time, let the child set the pace of the relationship; when shes ready for a closer relationship, shell let you know. Allow Time for Grieving - If youre a stepparent entering into a marriage that was preceded by divorce between two living parents, give the stepchild time and space. As their hope slips away, children often begin a natural grieving process, one they could postpone when there was still a possibility that their parents would reunite. Treat Stepchildren as Family - You might think that making a big fuss when theyre around helps them feel special. In reality, if you treat them like special guests, they wont feel like part of the family. Instead, include them in the family by giving them chores, asking them to share responsibilities, reviewing their homework, and attending parent-teacher conferences. Listen to and respect their opinions and praise them when the occasion calls for it. Get Lost Sometimes - As you already have time alone with one biological parent; make sure the kids have one-on-one time together too. This will help them feel more secure about one relationship, amidst changes in their lives. Maintain a Steady Friendship - Wondering if (and when) youll love your stepchildren or if theyll love you back can be awkward. But dont rush it. Develop Trust and Honesty - Trust is a key component in any relationship and it can take time to build as a child observes how you handle different situations. Do you listen; do you take an interest in what is important to your stepchild? Children can sense dishonesty and insincerity. Exchange Your Interests - Be open to your stepchildrens interests -- you never know what new activity youll enjoy together. Also, have some rituals that you share. Remember that a step-relationship is created, and maintained, by the two people within it: parent and child.
Posted on: Wed, 21 Jan 2015 03:03:33 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015