Category Archives: Blended Families

The Basics of Stepparent Adoption

If you are married to a spouse who has a child from a previous relationship, you understand how complicated and sensitive parenting issues can be. You probably realize that you are not a biological parent to his or her child, but, at the same time, you want to provide a trustworthy, positive adult figure to whom the child can come with problems and concerns. Over time, you may find familial love beginning to develop. In some cases, the love becomes so strong the stepparent is ready to take the steps to become the child’s other legal parent through the process of adoption.

Continue reading The Basics of Stepparent Adoption

Blended Families: Tips for Building a Relationship with Stepchildren

Developing a relationship with your stepchildren can be difficult. While you may be excited to be a new member of the family and make connections, your stepchildren may see you as a reminder of their parent’s divorce. They also may also view you as a sign that their mother and father are not going to reunite. Through sensitivity and patience, however, you can start building a healthy relationship with your new stepchildren. Here is how:

Continue reading Blended Families: Tips for Building a Relationship with Stepchildren

Adopting Children in Illinois

Lots of parents in Illinois choose to expand their families by adopting children. Every family has its own reason for choosing this route and for many, it is a deeply personal and often emotionally-charged decision. Adding a child to your family through adoption can be one of the most rewarding choices you will ever make, creating the parent-child bond that lasts a lifetime and changes a family forever.

Continue reading Adopting Children in Illinois