Bringing Blended Families Together

Bringing Blended Families Together

A wedding is a magical time where a new family is created. When there are children involved, bringing two families together may take a couple extra steps and considerations. To make sure the transition goes over smoothly, it’s important to keep the children in mind during the planning process, the big day, and what to expect after the wedding. This is an exciting time for everyone! Incorporating relationship building into your planning process will ensure the family connection will be sealed by the wedding day. Enlisting a professional and attending family counseling classes is a neutral way to discuss the present and future. During the time leading up to the wedding, offer available times for activities, meals, and mutual interests to bond over. Make sure you listen to your kids! Find out how involved they want to be. Depending on their age, they may be eager to participate or would rather sit out and observe. Let them take it in strides. Inviting your children or spouse-to-be’s children into the ceremony can be a truly special time that unites everyone. On the flip side, if they choose to sit out, make sure you follow up, especially depending on living arrangements. Ask them if they would prefer some one-on-one time before or after the wedding to talk and answer any questions. They may be uncertain of what to expect and it could hold them back, or would rather wait until the celebration is over to talk about what they are feeling. Remember, this is an exciting time for you but may be confusing for them. Opening the lines of communication is...
Summer Fun!

Summer Fun!

Summer has arrived! As we enter June and our excitement turns to vacations, family, sun and surf, what plans should you pencil into your calendar? Making the most of summer for many means catching up on reading, seeking out new opportunities, and spending time with our kids. Events By Deb is here to make some recommendations on how to optimize your summer for your social and mental nourishment! Summer months mean family trips! After a long school year your kids are going to be itching to explore a new location and release some tension. If you haven’t already booked a trip, scope out some AirBnBs within driving distance for a last minute vacation. Saving on airfare and creating a road trip style getaway allows you to take in some sights and stops along the way. Ask everyone involved to choose one stop they would like to take on the journey! Get involved! No matter your age, Summer is a great time to test out an internship or volunteer in your community. Searching for these opportunities is easy by asking around or searching one of the several great databases such as Volunteer NC. Getting connected in youth support programs, soup kitchens, sport teams, and other community improvement projects is a fulfilling way to spend some summer hours. Another way to improve is to hone in on a skill you are hoping to gain experience in and apply for a volunteer or internship position to gain connections and network. What are your plans now that school is out and summer is here? Hopefully you’ve taken some tips from our blog to...