ONE-ON-ONE TIME
Caroline Webster-Stratton who devised The Incredible Years Parenting Programme says that spending ten minutes a day playing with your stepchild has a profound effect on your relationship. Allow the child to lead the play – this is not a time for teaching or prying.
SET CLEAR CONSEQUENCES
Together with your partner and his children, set upsome household rules and clear consequences if these are not followed. The consequences should be immediate, age-appropriate and realistic.
TOGETHER IS MUCH BETTER
Work with your partner as a couple. If you have different and conflicting parenting styles this will only create divisions within the family. It will also place a great deal of strain on your relationship and could leave you looking like the evil stepmom.