| Robin |
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| March 26, 2008 at 10:42 AM |
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| #1 |
One of the biggest challenges I've faced as a step parent is providing a consistent environment for the kids. I initially thought, oh, how easy, just teach them well, lead by example, expose them to great and healthy things in the world. That's all well and good except when they go back to their mother and her only way of handling them is to buy them everything they want, teach them little or nothing about compassion to others, and then they come back to your house and its like you have to start building those blocks again. This is a great example of 2 ex-spouses just not communicating and you're left feeling like you have to clean-up the mess...this was not expected, and it's certainly not fair. Why should I feel guilty because the kids are not getting what they need from their own parents!!! Why should it be my job??? |
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| sam |
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| March 27, 2008 at 06:04 AM |
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| #2 |
couldn't agree more...I am a teacher and felt that way too. It's hard to see poor parenting and even harder to have to try and un-do the bad teaching. I try to remind myself that you can only do your best, for those kids, and you almost have to "let go" of what happens outside your home. (unless of course abuse is suspected |
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| MC |
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| April 23, 2008 at 08:30 AM |
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| #3 |
Unfortunately we don't see the kids as much as we'd like. As they get into their teenage years our influence and discipline has less of an impact. We are struggling to try and ensure they treat others well, take care of their bodies & the environment, but 4-6 days a month just isn't enough time. I guess it's better than nothing, but it really stinks. Unfortunately we don't/can't talk with their mother about our concerns because she thinks all is just fine. I pray everyday they grow to be good, kind people. Being consistent is so important to kids.
It is so sad if both parents, post divorce, can't work together for the well-being of their child. |
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