Wisdom On Step-Parenting: How to Succeed Where Others Fail

by Diana Weiss-Wisdom

Subtitle: How To Succeed Where Others Fail This book is for anyone who finds them self in the role of stepparent. No one plans on being a stepparent; it's something that happens when you fall in love with someone who already has children. Just like parenting, it can be very fulfilling or it can be frustrating and heartbreaking. The choice is ours. Written by a psychologist and stepmother, who knows firsthand the challenges that being a stepparent can bring. The stories in this volume are drawn from clients that the author has counseled as well as her own adventurous life as a stepparent. To other struggling stepparents who feel they are drowning in their situation, she offers hope, encouragement, and realistic coping strategies. She provides proven techniques that help individuals succeed in their new marriages, build caring relationships with their stepchildren, and bolster their emotional life in general. "This gem of a book reveals how stepparenting, in spite of the pitfalls, can be done well and be immensely rewarding for the whole family." Richard Levak, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist and Personality Expert

Genres: Parenting, Family

204 pages, Paperback

First published October 26, 2012

Reviews

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was gifted this book by my stepmom, who I am very grateful for. I found it interesting and inspiring, especially the quick reminder sections. At the end of each chapter, there were also areas to journal.

The book describes common challenges blended families face, with tips to navigate each one. The overall vibe is definitely optimistic: ie "this is challenging, but be grateful for the following things," or "they struggled, but they did xyz and now they are much better." It's just so complex. Maybe because of the shorter length, some of the discussions felt oversimplified. Still, an important and informative read for stepparents.

[Sonja · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little repetitive at times, but overall a helpful look at the role of a step parent in the new family unit

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first step-parenting book I've read and I wish I'd read it a few years ago. I'm lucky to have a good relationship with the kids, who are young adults but not quite "fled the coop" in that young adult way. But I really did walk into this without a clue. It's hetero oriented and doesn't deal at all with any of the LGBT nuances of step-families (or have examples that aren't straight) but that seems to be the case with all of the books on this theme and the approaches it does offer translate well. This would be a good book for someone about to become a step-parent and I'm recommending it to one of my co-workers who just became one. It's self-published so there are some typos. This is free in the Kindle Owners Lending Library.