1. Stepping Stones for Stepfamilies
(Presenter Name and
contact information)

2. Purpose of Our Lesson
Explore differences between biological families and stepfamilies.
Recognize transitions and adjustments that stepfamilies usually experience.
Discuss how extended family and the community can support stepfamilies.

3. Take a paper plate and listen to the instructions.
What is a Stepfamily?
Activity 1
Take a paper plate and listen to the instructions.

4. What is a Stepfamily? Activity 1 Summary
A stepfamily is born of loss..
Individuals in stepfamilies have different personal histories
There can be differences in family traditions and values

5. Typical Strengths and Challenges of Stepfamilies Activity 2
False….stories and myths still affect stepmother.
True….Strong loyalty issues with children ages 9-15 can create adjustment issues.
True….It can take a long time depending on family.
True….Strong couple relationship helps get past hurdles.
False….Stepparents have no legal rights.

6. Activity 2 Summary
Let’s look at the Fact Sheet for suggested activities to assist stepfamilies in adjusting to stepfamily living.
Note to leader: Look at the Train-the-Trainer PowerPoint on the website for adding additional slides from the FamilyTALK lesson.

7. Persons outside the Stepfamily Activity 3
Who are other persons that can impact the stepfamily?
How can these persons be supportive?
How can they create stress?

8. Activity 3 Summary Grandparents and absent parents
Remain neutral in presence of the children.
Spend time with children.
Discuss problems with parent only.
Schools and Community Groups
Be sensitive to a child’s family situation.
Recognize need to keep two households informed.

9. Evaluation
Please complete the survey to help us gather information on how useful this program is to you.
Note to leader: Print off the participant survey on the back of the Fact Sheet for the participants to complete and leave with you. This allows the Fact Sheet to be taken home.

10. In conclusion, remember:
Time is an ally
for stepfamilies!!

11. For more information on stepfamilies, go to: