Thriving as a blended family
Help for parents and step-parents on bonding as a family
A Focus Series
Whether formed after the death of a spouse or through remarriage, blended families are led by parents defined by courage and hope. Having found their way through painful circumstances, they’ve stepped up to grasp another opportunity for happiness. Alongside courage and hope, parents of blended families need much wisdom too: their children may have conflicted feelings about this new beginning, there may be difficult ex-spouses to deal with, and pain from the past can make present-day issues confusing.
On this page you’ll hear from family experts and from other parents who have navigated many highs and lows of the blended family experience. If you’re parenting a blended family, we hope that their insights will help you and everyone in your household find more harmony and joy as a family.
Becoming informed before you remarry
How the kids may respond to your remarriage
Recommended resource
Preparing to Blend: A Couple's Guide to Becoming a Smart Stepfamily by Ron L. Deal
Protecting your marriage in a blended family
Recommended resource
The Smart Stepfamily Marriage by Ron L. Deal and David H. Olson
Blended families face unique challenges. It’s critical for parents to understand the dynamics at play in their blended family’s interconnected relationships so they can lead their family well. Join Smart Stepfamilies founder Ron Deal for a free, seven-part video series that will help you establish your blended family on a solid foundation of love and trust. Get started
Bonding with your stepchildren
Recommended resources
Understanding and Loving Your Bonus Child by Stephen Arterburn and Connie Clark
Building Love Together in Blended Families by Gary Chapman and Ron L. Deal
A Home Built from Love and Loss by Sabrina McDonald
Daily Encouragement for the Smart Stepfamily by Ron Deal and Dianne Neal Matthews
Working with the other custodial parent
Blended family finances
Recommended resource
The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning by Ron L. Deal, Greg S. Pettys and David O. Edwards