Lawrence Ganong Ph.D

Caregiving means to do things to help another person. Caregiving activities that enhance bonding with stepchildren usually involve personal contact. Stepchildren do not always notice stepparents' caregiving, but when they do, they are grateful and feel safer. Effective stepparents tell stepchildren they are caregiving to help, not to replace absent parents. There are many things stepparents can do to get stepchildren to like them and to bond with them.

Take our Dementia Test Find a therapist to help manage stress Caregiving means to do things to help another person. Caregiving activities that enhance bonding with stepchildren usually involve personal contact. Stepchildren do not always notice stepparents' caregiving, but when they do, they are grateful and feel safer. Effective stepparents tell stepchildren they are caregiving to help, not to replace absent parents.

One of the most important tasks for new stepparents is to create a positive bond with stepchildren. Being an ally to stepchildren is one way to build a connection with them. Being an ally may involve being an advocate for a stepchild, taking their side in a dispute with other people. Allying can involve intervening, protecting, helping stepchildren solve problems, and showing support. A basic task for stepparents is to bond positively with stepchildren.