Questions about blended families and stepparenting.

Teenagers, joint custody, traditions and rituals: questions from and about stepparents and stepparenting.. Just by loving and being loved we can help our stepchildren, even teens. But is that enough to solve problems with teenagers and blended families?

WHAT ABOUT WHEN THE PARENTS OF TEENAGERS GET REMARRIED?
Although they may not want the marriage and may feel like they are giving up their parent, they can not stop the marriage and it is important for their parent to be happy. Also, they will be given time to adjust to the blended family and your teen will not be expected to give up loyalty to biological parent.

FOR THOSE PARENTS WITH JOINT CUSTODY.
If you are a joint-custody parent, make certain to plan a few empty week-ends for the new marriage. Be willing to change to accommodate the other custody parent. Don't leave the stepparent to assume all parenting duties while the biological parent goes shopping or plays golf.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY NEW FAMILIES CAN DEVELOP THEIR OWN CELEBRATIONS, TRADITIONS OR RITUALS?

First, the parents, including any exes involved, have to decide what changes will be made. Where will they spend Christmas, birthdays, Thanksgiving, etc. Then changes from past traditions should be explained to children in a manner appropriate to their age. The new parents and children if they are old enough, can then start their own traditions and rituals. But, remember, traditions take time to form, even in a nuclear family. They will take as much or even more time in a blended family.

*CyberParent Recommended Reading for More Information:*
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