8d • General discussion
Let's start at the very beginning!
One of my favorite movies is The Sound of Music. As the new nanny, Julie Andrews begins to teach the children how to sing. The first line of a well-known song says, "Let's start at the very beginning" and one of the children replies, "A very good place to start."
For stepparents wanting to bond with their stepchildren, the "very beginning" may feel like very surface level communication, but it is a very good place to start. When adults push for the blend too quickly, the children may shut down or rebel.
A few tips for "the beginning..."
- Gently lean in on topics such as the child's hobbies, sports, or other interests without being overbearing
- Instead of "How was school?" - which will get you a one word answer - ask how their science test went or if they looked into joining the journalism club they mentioned an interest in
- Be open to following their lead. If they aren't ready for deeper conversations, be patient and let the relationship grow.
Most importantly, the type of communication you are used to may be slightly to completely different from that of your partner and his/her children. It takes time to navigate even surface -level relationships that are new.
What other tips would you share with new stepcouples when it comes to communication within the family?
3
4 comments
Let's start at the very beginning!
powered by
skool.com/our-blended-home-7523
A learning hub for couples in the early stages of blending - get aligned and build a strong foundation before conflicts and confusion take over.
Suggested communities
Powered by