Having a Bonus Parent Mentality
Show Notes
About the Guest
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Author and stepdad Steve Arterburn says, "When you demand love and respect from stepkids, you make them feel like they are betraying their biological parent so don't demand that of them. Let love develop on its own terms." Also, if neither biological parent enjoys sports, or hunting, or music, or sharing funny YouTube videos step into that space. Make it your own. Bring something new and different to their lives. And, finally, share fun experiences and create memories that are unique to you.
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Ron Deal
Ron L. Deal is one of the most widely read and viewed experts on blended families in the country. He is Director of FamilyLife Blended® for FamilyLife®, founder of Smart Stepfamilies™, and the author and Consulting Editor of the Smart Stepfamily Series
Okay, are you a stepparent or a bonus parent?
Ron: Okay, are you a stepparent or a bonus parent?
Announcer: For FamilyLife Blended®, here’s Ron Deal.
Ron: Here are some tips from author and stepdad Steve Arterburn on having a bonus- parent mentality. “When you demand love and respect from stepkids,” he says, “You make them feel like they are betraying their biological parent so don’t demand that of them. Let love develop on its own terms.”
He also suggests you try to bond with and support stepchildren in ways that neither of their biological parents do. If neither parent enjoys sports, or hunting, or music, or sharing funny YouTube videos step into that space. Make it your own. Bring something new and different to their lives. And, finally, share fun experiences and create memories that are unique to you. For FamilyLife Blended I’m Ron Deal.
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