Your first day together as a family is a day they will remember forever. Make the best of it, make it pleasant by planning an activity that will be memorable for the new family’s first day together as a family.

• Transitional problems should be gracefully put aside as much as possible. Usual transitional problems are (1) children instantly expecting a new parent to replace a parent that has died and (2) new stepparents tries too hard to be a perfect parent when the child is still dealing with issues from the divorce.
• Sharing family histories with viewing family album and movies. This will help to understand each other better and gives a shared intimacy to build a relationship on.
• Children from two families merging into one home may have issues involving sibling rivalry, jealousy about “their” parent, hurt feelings arising from unclear rules are a only few of the possible pitfalls. Treating each child fairly, lovingly, and patiently can go a long way toward smoothing out a potentially painful transition period.
• It is a good idea to discuss parenting styles before putting everyone together. For example, say you are someone who avoids family problems and expects the other parent to “handle” these situations with the children. You marry and expect the new spouse to handle problems. What happens when she or he is someone who is also an avoider. Expectations can disappoint. Explore parenting styles before tying the knot is wisdom here.

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