There are many special challenges with a second marriage and the formation of a step family – too many to delve into here.

Below are a few typical areas of concern you can discuss. Then, there are listed a number of Internet resources where you can dig deeper.

If you are becoming a step-family, I strongly urge you to make use of some of the available materials.

1. Do either of you have concerns about the other’s previous marriage. Examples:
Interference from the previous partner, child support or alimony.

2. Have you thoroughly discussed your new home and lifestyle? Examples: Will you
have a place new to the both of you? Whose or which furnishings will you keep? How
will your home be decorated?

3. What are the greatest challenges each of you expects in this relationship?

4. Are you in agreement regarding your children? Examples: Who will make the rules for
the children? Who will discipline the children and how will they be disciplined? Will
your children’s needs come first?

Additional Internet resources for step-families:

Successful Stepfamilies – http://www.successfulstepfamilies.com/ Offers Christian-based book and video resources.

The Blended Family Ministry – http://www.blendedfamilyministry.com/ Resources from Edward and Sharon Douglas, authors of The Blended Family: Achieving Peace and Harmony in the Christian Home.

Stepfamily Association of America – http://www.saafamilies.org/ A national, non-profit organization that sells a variety of books and materials for families & professionals.

Stepfamily Information – http://www.stepfamilyinfo.org/ A wealth of information, including an eight-module remarriage preparation course.

Your Stepfamily – http://www.yourstepfamily.com/ Bi-monthly magazine for dads, moms, & kids to help them evolve as a family.

Stepdads.com – http://www.stepdads.com/

The Family Law Advisor - http://www.dicorcenet.com

Stepfamily Services - http://www.stepfamilyservices.com

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