How Do You Be A Good Step-Parent?
Parenting is difficult under the best of circumstances and step-parenting provides additional challenges. These tips can help you be a good step-parent and alleviate some of the common fears and mistakes that are commonly seen in your new role. Clarify your role as a step-parent with your spouse to include in the areas of authority, discipline and your title. Resolve questions such as whether you should be addressed as “mom” or your given name and when your spouse should be consulted before taking action. Cover prominent childrearing issues such as religion, education, basic rules and responsibilities for the children. The more issues that can be addressed in advance the better. Discuss step-parenting problems on a regular basis with your spouse. Be clear on your expectations, to include displays of respect, so that you do not become resentful. Make a firm agreement to not undercut each other’s authority in front of the children. Solving issues as they arise will better enable you to b
