Q: As a recently remarried stepparent, what can I do to smooth the transition to blended family life for my children, stepkids and everyone else?
Jim: First and foremost, be patient. The task of building a blended family is challenging and complicated. Even under the best circumstances, it takes time – lots of it. Here are some thoughts on what this might mean and how the details may play out in practical terms:
Don't expect to become the Brady Bunch overnight: Create realistic goals. Keep the lines of communication open and discuss your hopes and dreams together – with the understanding that flexibility is key. Blending is possible, but it can't be forced. It must arise out of the slow process of developing genuine, honest relationships with one another.
