Introducing your children to a new partner and their children after divorce can be a challenge, but it is necessary if you plan for your relationship to progress.
Here are five tips to help you when you are ready to begin the process of family blending.
1. Establish boundaries upfront
Establishing clear boundaries upfront can help you set up your blended situation for success. You can start by identifying expectations from each parent and outlining acceptable interactions with children.
2. Put the children first
The actions you take amidst the blending process can have lasting implications for your children and the relationship you share. Keep the kids at the top of your priorities list.
3. Plan separate time with your kids
Be mindful of your children’s needs as you blend with your new partner’s family. Planning separate time with your kids allows them a break from the uncomfortable challenges and a chance to spend quality time with you.
4. Create open lines of communication
Check in with your children and partner often to get a status report on how well the blending process is going and identify issues that need more work. Keep an open mind going into these conversations, and be careful to encourage honest communication.
5. Do not expect immediate success
Blending families takes time and trial and error. Be patient with the process and those you care about as you unite to work out the kinks in your new arrangement.
Merging two families is difficult, but some proactivity can make it easier. Remember these five tips as you and your partner spend more time with your children.
