Hey Babes!

When I started dating my fiance in 2016, the one thing I was nervous about was meeting his son and niece. He always spoke highly of them both and reminded me constantly that the two of them are a package deal...if you see one the other isn't far behind. To be honest, this was my first time dating someone with children and my only reference to the stepchild/ step-parent life was horrendous stories I read online and the Lifetime movies (don't judge me lol).

After meeting two of them I realized the step-parent life isn't as horrible as the internet and Cinderella makes it seem. Grant it, step-parenting and blending families is tricky because the rules, roles, and expectations of everyone (adults included) are changing.

Bonding as a blended family is very important. Even if you have reservations about spending time with your stepchildren, you should swallow your fears and do it. It's the only way you two can truly get to know each other and become comfortable together. When I found out the UniverSoul Circus I knew it would be the perfect event to spend quality time with my bonus son and bonus niece.

I've put together a list of 4 ways you can bond with your stepchildren. Hopefully, these tips will help you navigate through your step-parenting is a journey.




1.  BE YOURSELF
Just like there's no such thing as the perfect parent...there's no such thing as a perfect step-parent. Don't pretend to be someone you're not. If you love reading, painting, taking photos, etc. find ways to include them in the things you love. This will allow them to see you in your element of doing something you love and having a good time. At the UniverSoul Circus, I instagrammed and video recorded nearly every stunt and dance scene. My fiance's niece took notice and asked if she could use my phone to take pictures of the acts, too. After the show, she expressed me she'd really like to record YouTube videos and told me all about her future YouTube channel.

2. Laugh a Lot
Don't think that you have to create a perfect little life for your new family. Things will happen, and not everything will run smoothly all the time. The more you can laugh, and see the positivity and lessons in situations, the faster everyone will adjust. The goal is to make a peaceful environment for everyone. And trust me a little laughter goes a long way. 

3. Take Interest in Activities They Enjoy
My bonus son and bonus niece love animals, junk food, and dancing. I knew UniverSoul Circus, was the #BestCircusEver to have them experience all of their favorite things in one place. Also, I'm such a big kid so UniverSoul Circus was also a treat for myself! After the circus, they raved about the fun they had until we got home. And for the first time in a long time, I felt as though they genuinely appreciated the time they had spent with me.

4. Let the Kids Lead
If you’re a new stepparent, family therapist Ramani Durvasula advises letting your stepkids set the pace for your budding relationship. “Many times, this entire transition is quite overwhelming for kids,” she says. “Let them lead the dance. They may need more time than you want to give, but let it breathe.” - Excert form Mom.Me


All photos were taken by Deon Tillman of Till Infinity Multimedia.
Circus tickets complimentary of UniverSoul Circus.