Top Tips for Part-time Step Families

Hassle Free Handover
Agree to be punctual but remember, delays do sometimes happen. Try not to let the hold-ups ruin the children’s contact time.

Feels like Home….
The kids aren't just visiting. This is their life. Take it gently give everyone a chance to relax and be themselves.

It doesn't cost the earth
Money can't buy their love. Try talking about, planning for and negociating fun time together. Challenge the kids to come up with 5 things to do at the weekend that will not break the bank......Cheap can be cheerful

Simply Food
It's hard to please all the people all the time. You don’t need to impress. You can make life easy with ready-made options available. Can everyone take turns for a 'favourites night'?

A Room of my Own
As we don't all live in mansions, a bedroom each won't always be available but what about trying to have a bed and their own chosen bedding? Create wardrobe and drawer space for clothes and a special box for some of their favorite things.

Rules are made to be Broken
Where possible, let everyone have a say in setting out family rules. Keep it simple. Then everyone knows what the rules are.

Rome wasn't built in a Day
Getting to know each other can be difficult especially when people are nervous, angry or scared. It's easy to feel hurt. Accept differences where you can and change what you need to, one step at a time...

A Time to Talk
Time is precious to the children who come to stay with their parent. Make special time for them ‘to be with each other.’ It also gives ‘time-out’ for everyone else.

Relax - don't over do it!
Create space for you and your partner to have time together, you need and deserve it

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