Thriving As A Blended Family by Dr. James Dobson

November 16-17, 2021
Guest: Ron Deal

Part 1
Did you know that 40% of parents raising children under the age of 18 are members of stepfamilies? Some might even say the non-traditional family is the new traditional family. On today’s edition of Family Talk, Ron Deal, author of Preparing to Blend: The Couple’s Guide to Becoming A Smart Stepfamily, contends that combining families does not have to be like oil and water. He encourages parents to be empathetic with their step kids.

Part 2
The dynamics of being a stepparent can be tricky. A new stepdad or stepmom in the home can often be a reminder that a child’s biological mom or dad is absent. On today’s Family Talk, Ron Deal, author of the best-selling book, The Smart Stepfamily, explains that there are two keys to successful step-parenting. First, connect with the child to let him know you are understanding of his emotions concerning the turmoil. Second, do not attempt to "erase and replace" the biological parent. Like God, who lovingly and patiently pursues all of us, stepparents should do the same with their stepchildren.