Sunday, April 7, 2013

Week 12 - Difficulties in Creating a Blended Family

Having a blended family can be complex. It is interesting that more than 50% of families today are comprised of blended relationships. I think it's important that we remember this statistic and that we learn how to adapt to them because this is the norm now. I have first-hand witnessed how hard blended families can be. My brother has two little girls both from different moms and it has been a real struggle. Although he has tried to treat them as direct sisters there is always that awkward tension sometimes when the thought of "their real mom(s)" come up. Divorces, deaths, and remarrying are all a part of life. They can't always be avoided and they aren't always the ideal solutions and issues that come up, but if we approach the situations in good light with clear support and willingness, every family has the potential to be happy and successful.

Week 11 - Parenting

I found this week's class discussion regarding parenting to be really insightful. There are so many different types of parenting styles and unique family situations. I have come to understand that it doesn't matter the situation, you can still be a great parent even if you are alone, or married, or widowed. One of the key insights I took from class this week was the need for contact and belonging. So much can be said with the simple touch of one person to another. Every child responds differently, and personal contact can show support, compassion, and understanding. I hope that one day I can be the parent that I know I have the potential to be.