Replies to 'Step-Parenting'

Quote From: jenoc99

I know exactly what Dr. Phil would say- you and your husband, when he is home, must have a united front with the children. Meaning, you must have the same ideas about discipline, chores, and general expectations for the kids. It is understandable that you are at the end of your rope, but it is never too late to teach the kids discipline and respect. Respect for you, for their father, and for themselves, too. Its time to take control. Write down your expectations of the children, and then make a list with words that they will understand to print out and put on the fridge. (Example: put toys away when done playing.) When the kids fulfill a chore, let them know they will be rewarded with allowance, but no allowance if they don’t do the chores. You must be consistant, follow through, mean what you say and say what you mean. It will be difficult for the first week, but if you make a resolution with yourself to stay strong, you will notice that as time goes on, it will get easier.
Another method that Dr. Phil recommends is to clean out the child’s room, everything but the bed, pillow and blanket, and have them earn back their belongings. You can do this on a smaller scale, also- by just taking the things that they like the most, things that they would really work for.
Its not easy to blend families. Another suggestion is Dr. Phil’s book, “family first” it has so much valuable information, advice and ideas on how to build strong family ties. I wish you well!