How to Create Healthy Mixed Families

If you and your partner are preparing to move in with the kids, this can be an exciting time for everyone, but at the same time, it can be a bit worrying. It is never easy to move in together and instantly become a happy family without any problems. However, it is a time to celebrate! Here are some tips to take the plunge and stay happy under one roof!

Communication is key!

Even though the relationship between you and your new love is wonderful, you still need to think seriously and weigh all your options before taking the plunge. Even if your children (or either of them) are doing very well and you are both confident that you are ready to take the next step, take the time to communicate with each other as a future family. Talk about the rules, problems that may arise, and keep spending more time together.

Consistency counts

With any family, parenting philosophies should be consistent between the two parents. This includes everything that has to do with giving children the best possible life, such as discipline, communication, traditions, family time, chores, and more. Before your families are reunited under one roof, it is imperative that family reunions take place in the future. It is also important that your stepchildren have the same rules, consequences, number of tasks and that all other areas of “family life” are consistent and equal. Once you move in together, it can take time to “get your bearings” and get things running smoothly.

Control everyone

Be sure to talk to all of your children individually. Just because a child says nothing does not mean that they have accepted their new lifestyle. Talking every day with all the children is necessary for a healthy relationship and a loving family. This goes back to communication, but it is much more personal. Make all children feel loved and in tune with their actions and emotions to make sure they are okay. Knowing how each child in the family feels will prevent negative feelings from getting out of control and will keep the family bond even stronger.

Have fun together

The only thing that has to do with joining a family is that it is not just about you and your new partner. Little lives are in your hands, and what better way to create new traditions and memories than to have fun with each other! When the whole family spends time together, bonds are strengthened. This doesn’t mean you have to take everyone out for lunch or on weekend getaways every chance you get. Family time is perfect when everyone is together in a room playing games, eating together, having a movie night, or just talking and laughing with each other.

Accept mistakes

Combining a family is not easy at first. Some children may struggle at first and may be quite distant, even after prior communication. However, with proper preparation, communication, and lots of love, your family will be happy and healthy. Hiccups will occur, as in any family, but that’s okay. If you are a strong family and have bonded well, you will be able to overcome all the obstacles along the way and be happy together.