Figuring out how to bond successfully with your new stepchildren might be the key to bringing the family closer together. Failing to get this right could be the source of disharmony within the family unit that becomes increasingly difficult to fix down the line. So, here are a few suggestions on how to bond with your stepchildren:
• What do they want to talk about: for the most part, kids are naturally self-centered and they’ll ask you a bunch of questions relating to them. Therefore, why don’t you initiate conversations by asking about their life? Ask questions such as how they are doing in school, what friends they have made recently and what hobbies they are pursuing.
• Alone time with the biological parent: you have to be open to the idea of giving alone time with the biological parent. If you show that you’re promoting this alone time, then their trust in you will increase. It’s also a great way to reduce or remove resentment that might have been lingering towards you.
• Pace the relationship: do not jump in the deep end by pretending you are their parent from day 1. Instead, pace the relationship by going through a period where you are a friend, and when the time is right to move into the parent role.
