Step families are complicated and challenging. One of the hardest balancing acts to manage is loyalty to your kids on one hand and loyalty to a partner who isn't the other parent. And what about figuring out how to make a good relationship with your partners kids, especially if they regard you with hostility or suspicion?
And if you and your partner both have kids from previous relationships, how do you manage the differences, the confusions, the conflicts?
These links look at some of the step family issues and some approaches that might be helpful.
Combining Families
This article looks at some of the issues families face when new partners enter the picture, especially if the new partner has kids as well.
Stepping into your role
You’ve met, romanced, and chosen each other, but no-one consulted the kids! You and your new partner are sweet. There’s just one catch: you haven’t chosen your partner’s kids, and they surely haven’t chosen you.