Author Archive: Christina Mcdonald

Children are the most vulnerable in the midst of a divorce. More often than not, children will blame themselves for the situation as they will not understand the reasons why everything has gone wrong. The worst thing to do is…
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Being part of a blended family isn’t always an easy experience. There can often be underlying issues to contend with which unfortunately are not mentioned. The ability to form strong relationships within a blended family can sometimes be held back…
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Rivalry among children in a blended family should be approached sensitively by the parents. It is often very hard for children who have been catapulted into a new living situation with new family members. All of a sudden, they have…
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Entering into a blended family situation with your own children is a long term commitment which should not be taken on lightly especially when children of a spouse are involved. Favouring your own children over that of a partner can…
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A successfully blended family is a consequence of dedication and commitment from everyone involved. This success is determined by how much a family is willing to work together. The parents involved in a blended family situation will be responsible for…
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Conflicts within the blended family environment are common as family members often feel they need to assert their authority and independence for a variety of reasons. This may be caused by personal insecurities, lack of trust in a parental figure…
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Disciplining a stepchild is a sensitive subject within a blended family situation. A relationship between a parent and stepchild needs to be strengthened through trust, mutual understanding and respect before a stepchild will accept discipline. A parent should take extra…
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Creating trust in a blended family takes time and perseverance. Either as a parent or child, it can be hard entering into a new family situation after experiencing a bad divorce. It may feel as though it is impossible to…
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Preparing a child for change should be approached from a sensitive perspective which allows the child to be reassured and emotionally supported before any transition occurs. If a divorce has been particularly bitter, it will have had a bad effect…
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Children need to feel they are loved and accepted by the people who are closest to them. Within the blended family, a step parent has the responsibility of developing a secure and loving relationship with their stepchildren. Relationships of this…
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Marriage quality within the blended family is important to maintain. For a blended family to be successfully integrated and unified, it requires a positive example to be set by the parents. Before both partners consider the possibility of a blended…
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Befriending your stepchild for the first time is very significant. You may feel decidedly nervous with anticipation before greeting your stepchild which is to be expected. If this is your first experience of parenting, you will no doubt be looking…
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Children are often seen as being very resilient and able to cope with change. This is not often the case. Children are placed on an emotional rollercoaster which asks them to deal with change on multiple levels. The younger children…
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