Blending families can have wonderful outcomes, but that doesn’t mean it won’t come with challenges. Expanding your family is always difficult, and the first obstacle is always how to introduce a perfect stranger (as far as your children are concerned) into the family unit. But there are ways to do this successfully.
Recently a new parenting site, Kinsights, devoted to providing parents with valuable and practical insights, published an article on the best ways to approach this sensitive topic. The focus of the article was on the where and the how of it all.
Single parent and Lifestyle expert, Kerri Zane, drew up a list of the 5 best places to stage a successful Meet and Greet.
- Ice Cream Shops: A relaxed (and rewarding) environment really eases children into an unfamiliar and off-putting scenario.
- Arcades: A little friendly competition is a fun way to keep your child’s attitude positive during the crucial first meeting
- Play Parks: Outdoor activities are great ice-breakers
- Volunteer Spots: If your child is passionate about something (church or pet rescues, for example), having the “new guy” join in on that will really put your little one at ease. Better yet, it can set a common ground.
- Farmer’s Markets: Being able to walk around sampling foods will keep the mood nice and even as the two get to know each other.
Keep the conversations light at first, and use neutral terms like “friend” to keep your child from feeling overwhelmed.
Remember, the most important thing is that your child sees what you do in this person, so pick a spot that will bring out the best in the both of them.
