{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"6: Blended Families","description":"Chats with Monika:   How to make your blended family work Tips to Be Successful as a Blended family Be flexible. Being rigid is not helpful.  Your way is not the only way.  There are two parents. o   Make decisions together. o    How do you perceive your role as a parent of the child? You and your partner should have a conversation about this topic. Mistakes will happen. o   Don\u2019t throw mistakes in your partner\u2019s face. o   Talk about what is not working, and how you can work to change those things that are not working. Have conversations about what the child will call the new parent. For some people, the word step parent may be harsh. Find language that makes everyone feel included as opposed to excluded. o   When you don\u2019t say anything, it may bring about uncomfortable feelings. Be open to allowing conversation. o   Bring the children in and allow them to take part in the conversation.  Allowing children to express feelings and not have penalties for their feelings can be a gift. o   Model respect by expressing your feelings without being disrespectful. Use this as a teaching moment. Don\u2019t allow the other parent (child\u2019s mother or father) to become \u201cDrama\u201d for your relationship. o   This is the child\u2019s parent, so be careful when having conversations around the children o   Show respect toward the biological parent.  Do not make negative statements about their parent. Control yourself and your emotions. The biological mother and father may not get along, and sometimes this can negatively impact your relationship o   Allow your household to be a peaceful place by not allowing the other parent \u201cto walk around in your house.\u201d  Establish Boundaries Conversations about the other parent should not be every moment. Address concerns as they arise. Don\u2019t let it linger and create conflict or ongoing distress. Conversations about the child\u2019s other parent should be at an appropriate time. For example, this is not a conversation for date night. ","author_name":"Relationship Boosters | Couples | Marriage | Intimacy| Love | Family | Counseling | Marriage Advice | Healthy Marriage","author_url":"http:\/\/therelationshipboosters.com\/podcast\/","html":"