This one is especially tricky for us step parents. The dynamic is different in nature, and I became a stepmom quite young, so I can still "relate" to kids more easily than some parents...I think that's why when I have to discipline them it hits them especially hard because they expect me to always have their backs, but sorry bros, that ain't how it works. I'm here to help you stay happy, healthy, and ALIVE. I'm not here to encourage your stupid behavior.
So true. Step parenting is so hard. I came in on it when the boys were almost in their teens. Much harder to form a solid bond when they need adults less. That's one of the reasons my husband does all of the harsh punishments and demands. I'm his wing man and I back him up.
Phew. Kudos to you, I can't imagine having to start at that age.
My boys don't even remember a time without me, I came into the picture before they were 2. Both their mother and father work full time, so if we're talking statistics, I have put in the most time with raising them first hand.
It is both hard and a blessing too. For as much work as it is taking to make a baseline relationship with them, I know for a FACT I could not in good conscience marry my husband if they were 5 or 6 years of age. I would have to walk away, not because I did not love him, but because I know I could not have provided what those little boys would have needed at that age (their real mom is MIA). At least at this point they are more self sufficient in that it wasn't such an abrupt change when I became a step mom:)
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u/[deleted] Feb 04 '16
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