September, 2007
Issue 12

Tips for the New School Year

As you and your children are settling into the routine of the new school year, you might begin to experience some frustrations. Deadlines need to be met academically and recreationally, and adjustments in visitation schedules necessitate increased communications between exes.
Here are some tips to help you and your family maximize your joy and harmony in this school year.

• Assess each child's academic ability with sensitivity. While it is nice to have children who are great students, it is more important to encourage your children to do their best and be proud of the work produced. It is in the children's best interest to get the same message from the biological parents, as well as from the stepparents. The consistency of the message will make clear the expectations adults have of their children's behavior.
  
• If visitation schedules were different over the summer than during the school year, allow for a couple of weeks of emotional transition time. Gradually reintroduce your child to your home rules, expectations, and routines.
  
• Custodial parents, please, do not overschedule your children with extra-curricular activities that might infringe on the their time with the other parent. Your children need to be proactively parented by both parents.
  
• Remember to continue to act on what's in the best interest of your children.
  

If you are still not sure how to go about it, please consult with a therapist, or you may contact me.

Group Updates

Starting October
Smart Steps for Stepfamilies is a 6 week, research-based, educational program for stepfamilies. Learn practical tools to understand, improve, and increase your stepfamily success.
Starts Oct 17.

All couples registering by October 5th will get a
50% discount!


Ongoing
Surviving Divorce Successfully: End the Isolation! is a 10 week group for support and learning how to create a happy, satisfying life for yourself. Starts Sep 18.


Free
Stepfamilies Support Group: an ongoing (monthly) support group, open for both men and women in stepfamilies. We meet the second Monday of every month, from 6:30-8:00 P.M. Join us in sharing, exploring, and supporting each other in our stepfamilies' processes. Please, RSVP—mandatory for attendance—as seating is limited.

Fall is here and there is an anticipation of newness, change and growth.
Children's and parents' routines become more structured again, and for some, the pressure is felt for improved performance, academically and socially.

Please e-mail me any topic suggestions or questions you have regarding your stepfamily.

Next Issue: Tips for Close Sibling Relationships

Upcoming Issues: Tips for Grieving and Moving On & Tips for Enjoying the Holidays.

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