Remarriage and step-parenting is often a very difficult adjustment for both children and their parents. The suggestions may help stepparents to ease the fears children feel about their new family structure.
- Be positive in your response.
- Be understanding of the fear behind the anger.
- Offer promise of warmth, friendship, and a special relationship that will not replace the absent parent.
- Be responsive to the times your stepchildren want to talk or play with you.
- Go slowly in forming the relationship.
- Don’t worry if the first encounters don’t go well.
- Don’t reject the children even if they initially reject you.
