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A Note From the Founder:
This issue will deal with parenting. Why do we all think it is going to be so easy? We certainly set ourselves up!
When couples get together, they might have an "idea" of how they will parent. But when it comes down to it, often each partner does is differently and it takes time to get into a rhythm with one another.
Typically, both partners grow and learn as a baby grows. But when there are children in a remarriage, often a stepparent is expected to know and understand how to parent the stepchildren, no matter what their stage of development. And that is often impossible!
We will dedicate many of our newsletters to parenting, so hang tight -- help is on the way!
Warmly,
Susan Davis Swanson
Founder/Executive Director |
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StepFamily Life Newsletter
March 2009 |
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Learning to Parent Together as a New StepCouple
Every person has his or her own idea of what it means to parent. As long as both parents are pretty much on the same page, parenting your children can be a somewhat painless undertaking. But in a new marriage that includes stepchildren, the partners may not always be on the same page. And that could mean trouble given that the challenges in a stepfamily are endless. Here are some ways to make sure you and your new partner can parent together as a new stepcouple to keep your relationship united. |
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Register Now For the April S.O.S. for StepCouples Series!
S.O.S. for StepCouples is designed to provide help and useful tips for success to couples struggling through stepfamily dynamics. The 5-part series will be held consecutive Saturdays from 9-11:30 a.m., beginning April 4 and ending May 2.
The series will cover why a stepfamily is different from a nuclear family, how to build a stronger couple, better understanding what the children are going through, helping the stepparent integrate and tips for collaborative problem solving. The classes will be held in Beverly Hills. Space is limited, so register now! Register before March 15 for the early registration rate.
Also available is a 12-week StepParent Support Group, meeting weekly on Thursday evenings from 7:00-9:30 p.m. in Beverly Hills.
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March Tip of the Month
Talking about finances is difficult for most couples. And for remarried couples with children, the subject of money and how it is handled comes up often. During harder economic times, money can cause much more stress. But sitting down to talk about where and how to spend money in a constructive way can unite the marriage and strengthen the relationship! Don't be afraid to broach the subject with your partner. It may be a sensitive issue, but it's an important one for most couples. |
Listen for Susan!
Don't miss Susan's radio premiere on Thursday, May 14, when she will join host Joe Bruzzesse to discuss innovative ways to help stepfamilies thrive. The 1-hour show begins at 10 a.m. PST. Click here to find out how to tune in and ask questions! |
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What is a StepFamily?
A StepFamily is a family of two adults, at least one of whom has a child by a prior relationship. More than 50% of Americans will live in a StepFamily at some point in their lives, and StepFamilies outnumber nuclear families in the United States! Find out more by visiting us at www.stepfamilycenter.com. | |
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