Thinking of becoming and having stepparents can be scary both for you and your future stepchildren. It is not easy to accept it as a lot of adjustments have to be done from both parents and children side. So to make this a little easier for you we have few ways with which parents can connect with their stepchildren and vice- versa
Give Time
If you are entering into a child’s life after their parents divorced, this remarriage can shatter them and it takes time to accept the change. So, let them take their time as forcing for adjustments will only ruin your relationship, but with time and patience, things can be different.
Treat them as family
Do not treat them as special guests as this way they will not feel a part of the family. Include them in the family and give them chores asking to share the responsibility with attending their school when needed etc. It is important to teach to accept certain duties and obligations for the family as a whole.
Maintain the friendship
Parents need to be friends first, so don’t jump into the parent’s role, but start with knowing the kid and building the trust as to why the child should rely on you and accept your decisions. Start slow and let things develop naturally as you need to earn that trust.
Develop trust and honesty
Trust is always the supreme in any relationship. How you handle different situations with the child is when the kid observes you and this is the time you can win his trust.
Talk about interests
Kids are naturally self-centred and are not interested much if you talk about your own or others in front of them. Talk to them about their interests, likes and dislikes and use this opportunity to get engaged with them. You can also ask them about the games they love, hobbies, school and much that they would discuss interestingly.
Encourage Openness
Openness encourages children to be fearless and they feel free to express their emotions with discussing their fears and insecurities.