Why is it always the Stepmother who gets the “wicked” reputation? I have yet to see a Disney movie with a wicked Stepfather. Why is being a Stepmother SO hard?

As a mother and stepmother, I know first hand that being a stepmother is very different from being a mother. In fact, most days, being a stepmother is one of the hardest jobs on the planet. When you have children of your own you are in control. When you have stepchildren, the control is up for grabs.

Looking for ways to gain control in your home without turning into the Wicked Witch of the West? Here are a few quick tips to maintain control while decreasing your wicked reputation.

• Never discuss big conflict items in front of the children. These can include child support, schedules, rules and discipline.
• Always try to keep the communication lines between you and your spouse open and nonjudgemental.
• Never ask your spouse to choose between you and their children.
• Decide on house rules together. These rules apply to everyone in the house and don’t change when the stepchildren coma and go.
• The most important rule: Always put your marriage first. The kids will grow up and leave (hopefully) but your spouse will be around long after that!