MamasHealth.com Home Family Relationships Arguing in front of kids Conflicts with stepchildren Discipline the children, Husband or Wife Father and daughter relationship Grandparenting I am verbally abused Preparing your child for a new sibling Sibling rivalry Wife won't help clean Links Email Mama Sex and relationship advice from Madison Grey Committed couples Dealing with the in-laws Family relationships Infidelity Relationships and money Sexual health Sign up for the MamasHealth Newsletter	How to dissolve conflict with stepchildren With couples having children later in life, a stepchild may be a part of the immediate family. Careers, getting married later in life, and single families all contribute to the possibility of a stepchild in a relationship. When children from a previous relationship are brought into the family, the likelihood of conflict can arise. Consider these simple tips to dissolve conflicts and create a healthy, happy atmosphere. Dissolving Conflicts Children should be told, from the beginning, that you are working as a team and have their best interests at heart. Immediate action should be taken when a conflict arises. Waiting builds up frustration, stress, anxiety and tension. Both parents should be involved in deciding what steps to take when dissolving the conflict. Punishment should be given within the same degree of tolerance to all involved. Avoid taking sides with either child. Children are smart and can tell the difference. Conflicts should not be taken lightly. It is up to both parents to take responsibility for their part in the conflict. Children are aware of the parent that gives in and will take sides with that parent. Avoiding this dilemma from the start will make the conflict easier to handle. Communicate with each child during and after the conflict. Do not blame one child or the other. Staying neutral will emphasize to both children that you are listening to each one. Apologizing or saying "I'm sorry" should be part of dissolving a conflict. Conflicts can create an atmosphere of distrust and animosity. Being proactive in dissolving a conflict will ultimately bring harmony to the household. You must remember that this is all new to the stepchild. Creating a healthy and happy atmosphere is the responsibility of all involved.
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