EmpoweringParents.com

A comment on my blog last week on “How to Have a (Happier) Blended Family” caught my attention because it deals with a typical complaint: being stuck in the middle.

In her comment, Laura asks, “We are going on an extended family camping trip together next week. I don’t want to be in the middle of this battle [between my boyfriend and my 13 year old] and want them to work it out: what suggestions can I give each of them & myself throughout that week?”

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Adjusting to a step parenting role was a process that required a lot of growth on my part.  I’ve come by the answers to what works — and what doesn’t! — the hard way.

One thing I learned early on was that it didn’t work to be in charge of disciplining or correcting my stepson.  I thought it was best for my husband to carry out consequences and discuss problems.  Even though my stepson is usually receptive to my directions, I don’t want to assume a position where I’m the primary authority figure.

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