If you thought you needed a manual on how to be a parent, spare a thought for your stepparent. Without the privilege of the baby who cannot correct, nor remember what mistakes are made, your stepparent is daring!

It’s really helpful to have some clue of what many other stepparents have faced during their years of living with a partner who has children. It’s not an easy job for anyone – and when done well, it can be thoroughly rewarding.

Stepparent relationships are similar to any relationship – what we put in is what we get out, however the foundation of this relationship is unique. It is not built upon mutual desire, but rather initial mutual tolerance, that one day may grow genuine love. The relationship of the stepparent can be one of enormous value inside our families, however it is one relationship that is not to be confused with that of parent, but rather accepted as an enhancement of the parenting team.

Both eBooks are available for RRP NZ$7.00 each

These eBook reveals some of the most common differences for the Stepparent’s relationship with the children compared with the parent’s relationship. We look at the emotional challenges and give suggestions for how you might navigate your way through these changes successfully.

There are a variety of eCourses online and also special step-parent workshops available through the Complex Family Foundation.