Patricia Papernow

The Stepfamily Handbook: From Dating, to Getting Serious, to forming a "Blended Family" Patricia Papernow

"Successful stepfamilies build one step at a time."The Stepfamily Handbook provides these essentials: - Step-by-step guidance for how to introduce children to a dating partner and pace positive engagement between partners and kids, and kids with kids.- A roadmap through the "Five Stepfamily Challenges" that will likely surface shortly after you begin dating and grow in intensity as your relationship develops - with practical, proven tips to meet each challenge. - Developmentally specific pointers for ushering children through the struggles of becoming part of a new family.- Research-based information on best practices for parenting, stepparenting and discipline in a stepfamily.- Important tips for maintaining a successful relationship with a critical player in the family - the co-parent (ex-spouse), who is the children's other parent.- A solid communication skills tool box to help you face the inevitable relationship struggles that come with stepfamily formation.