With a divorce rate of more than 50% in our country the chance that you will remarry and have step children is a pretty sure bet.
It does not have to be the difficult situation it is portrayed in the movies and on television.
It can be a rewarding and fulfilling with just a little effort.
Like anything worthwhile you have to work at it.
If you follow some of the steps below it may make for a much more pleasant family experience.
First, keep in mind that you are not the child's real parent and that that they do have their real parent and you do not want to try and take their place.
You must forge your own relationship and not try to replace an existing relationship.
Secondly, Start by establishing special things that you and the child can do together that you do not do with anyone else.
Making them feel that they are needed for themselves and you are not just trying to be nice.
For instance maybe you and the child can hang Christmas lights together and this can become your thing.
Next, Never try to compete with the child's real parent, you will never win.
They will always be loyal to their real parent, as they should be.
As mad as you may be sometimes, don't say bad or hurtful things about their parent in front of them.
Always give their parent the benefit of the doubt.
Never make yourself the good one and their parent the bad one.
Lastly, always make them feel a part of the family.
If there are other children, make sure your treat all of them equally.
If the child needs some space, give them some time to themselves.
It is very hard for kids to all of a sudden have a new parent and at the same time have to share their existing parent with a stranger.
Blended families can work just have patience.