What do we need to know as we blend our families?  How can we succeed as a stepfamily?

• Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about stepfamily life.
• Stepfamily myths that can cause problems as you adjust in the new family.
• The Wicked Stepmother Myth
• Foundations for a successful step family
• The challenges in step or blended families, includes a book list

How can we help our children adjust?

• General guidelines for step parenting or blended families
• Remarriage:  helping children cope
• How age affects a child’s reaction to step families
• Parenting in step families
• “But I love my real mom”
• Let children choose step parent names
• Holiday stress and divorced families

What are some recommended books on step families?

• Remarriage and step parenting resource list—recommended books for young children through teens, and books for parents.

What are some other sources of information and support for stepparents?

• The National Stepfamily Resource Center, a division of Auburn University’s Center for Children, Youth, and Families (CCYF), serves as a clearinghouse of information, linking family science research on stepfamilies and best practices in work with couples and children in stepfamilies.
• The Stepfamily Foundation provides telephone and in-person counseling, and information to create a successful step relationship.  Their counselors specialize in stepfamily counseling.  They also offer information in Spanish on their website. Call 212-877-3244.
• The Stepfamily Network works to educate all members of stepfamilies and professionals who work with them.  Their site has lists by state of resources and support groups for stepfamilies.  Call 1-800-487-1073.
• Co Mamas has tips on how step moms and ex-wives can get along better for the sake of the children.

Compiled by Kyla Boyse, R.N. Reviewed by faculty and staff at the University of Michigan

Updated March 2007

U-M Health System Related Sites:
Department of Psychiatry
U-M Pediatrics

Our editorial policy
The information and links we provide are reviewed by University of Michigan developmental and behavioral pediatricians and child psychologists who are experts in child behavioral health. In choosing the links we provide, we use strict criteria to ensure that the information is accurate, and the source is reputable. As much as possible, we focus on information that is based on research. In areas where there is inadequate research, we include information compatible with prevailing expert opinion.

This website is updated regularly, but because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, we cannot be responsible for misinformation that may be accessed through the links provided. As always, this website is not a tool for self-diagnosis, and is not a substitute for professional care.

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