Step-families Day

On the 16^th September it will be National Step Family Day in the U.S – there is not, as far as I am aware, an equivalent day in the UK.

One in three American citizens live in a stepfamily and 30% of children in the U.S are currently growing up in a stepfamily. In the UK in 2008, more than 10% of families with dependent children were step families and stepfamilies were the fastest growing type of family. It has even been previously estimated that there are more step families than “nuclear” families.

Having a step-parent suggests that the family has previously been through a divorce, which will have been a huge ordeal, especially for the children, and the changes and emotions that are felt when a new step-parent comes into the family can be difficult. Resentment, anger and divided loyalty can see previously amicable relationships damaged with the consequences felt by the children and all involved.

And yet there are many step families who work hard with these issues every day, foster good relationships between the children and new step parent and between the adults involved and who, despite the difficulties, remain together and provide a stable environment for the children in the family unit.

So, if your family is a step family, on the 16^th September (even if you are not in the U.S) take a moment to think about the positives and some time together.