So, this step-parenting thing is kind of hard. Who knew? (Kidding ...)
In my case, so far, my relationship with the kids is great. It's the back-and-forth between Mom and Dad that's a bit rough. Does anyone have suggestions on dealing with the ex? (And things are relatively fresh, so this is new for everyone involved.)
I found this passage from Dr. Phil (kind of cheesy, I suppose) that seemed to hit at some underlying issues I'm just realizing:
You know? It's tough at times to accept the daily relationship my girlfriend and her ex have around the kids. No matter how well I get along with the kiddos, I'll never be in the that parent loop. Some days that feels like a big gap. Suggestions on dealing with that jealousy?
In my case, so far, my relationship with the kids is great. It's the back-and-forth between Mom and Dad that's a bit rough. Does anyone have suggestions on dealing with the ex? (And things are relatively fresh, so this is new for everyone involved.)
I found this passage from Dr. Phil (kind of cheesy, I suppose) that seemed to hit at some underlying issues I'm just realizing:
The stepmother or -father should actively support the chid's relationship with the biological mother or father no longer in the home. If you are in the role of stepfather, you should make it a priority to nurture a relationship between you and the biological father and to find every possible way you can to support a relationship between him and his children. By taking the high road of facilitation, you'll find it easier to overcome feelings of resentment both on the part of the biological father and the children he no longer has daily access to. This may require some real internal commitment on your part, because supporting your stepchildren's relationship with their biological but absent parent may seem tantamount to also supporting that parent's relationship with your spouse. Don't let jealousy or envy of the bond they share with their children or the working relationship and history with your current mate cause you to be less than supportive of that relationship.
You know? It's tough at times to accept the daily relationship my girlfriend and her ex have around the kids. No matter how well I get along with the kiddos, I'll never be in the that parent loop. Some days that feels like a big gap. Suggestions on dealing with that jealousy?