This well-constructed site doesn't deal only with stepfamilies, but some of the other articles are helpful for any family. There are concerns that are part of families with teens, and some good advice is given on those topics. Other items deal specifically with stepfamily developments; most titles give a clear idea of what the article is about. Here is a list of some of them:
- Equality for All Not Always for All
- Staying Involved in Your Teen's Education While Parenting from Afar
- Keeping the Holidays Happy
- One Mean Season: A Stepfather's Introduction to Parenthood
- Necessary Groundwork
- The Power of Empathic Listening
- Communication Tools: Respectful Assertion and Win-Win Problem Solving
In addition to the fine collection of archived articles, the site offers a number of departments for dealing with specific issues. There are book reviews, a look at software, and humor; and also departments dealing with Communication, Education, Life Skills, Living with Parents, Living with Teens, Spirituality, Single Parenting, and Stepfamilies.
The site also offers a chat room, forum, bookstore, and links to other pages.
2. Parents Place: Stepfamilies
The featured article focuses on eight ways to help build a healthy stepfamily. The first way mentioned is: "strengthen the couple's bond." Honesty, patience, and understanding are vital tools, and the couple need some time alone to work on these areas as they build their relationship.
The second point discussed is "this is your choice and not the children's"; the kids had little to say about this major change in their lives.
In turn, that leads to the third point, which is "don't expect instant love." Everybody needs the opportunity to get to know one another, so it is important to be realistic about time.
Point four is "allow losses to be mourned." The adults and children have had major changes and losses in their lives.
The fifth point is a reminder that "every child is unique." Adjustment in the new family will be quite a different matter if the children are very young, or teenagers.
Point six is to "Create family rituals." Besides being enjoyable time together, these help to build a strong foundation for the new family.
"Support children's relationship with other biological parent" is point seven. There are situations that require work and understanding, but it is worthwhile to encourage the relationship if at all possible.
Point eight is to "Understand that children come first."
Following this are links to many other Parents' Place articles about stepfamilies. They cover areas such as:
