Going to have a blended family...

Kristin - posted on 05/15/2011

I highly suggest a move in plan for the boy with Autism, really walk him through the steps of what's going to happen before it happens so he's not entirely thrown off, planning ahead will be key for his transition.

Kristin - posted on 05/15/2011

Depending on the level of Autism his son has, I would sit down with your kids, with information about Autism and how it affects his son. Also, bone up yourself. Blending families is hard and takes a LOT of patience. Especially when their is a differance added into it like Autism, my daugter is adhd and her closest step-sibling in age has trouble understanding sometimes why she acts the way she does. Make sure you don't do it to separate his son, more to help your kids understand if he does stuff they just don't get. It'll be hard sometimes, but don't think because you have a bad week or two it's not going to work. Just make sure you do your prep work for everyone before you move in. The less the surprises the kids have about this the better it will probably turn out.

Tami - posted on 05/14/2011

One of the main things you and your new spouse need to clarify is discipline for the kids. Who is allowed to do what to whos kids for discipline. The families (in-laws) are easy. The BM or BD can make things rough, so if you have good relationships there it will be a smoother transition. Kids getting along will figure out with a little guidance from you. Too much interferance can make for hard feelings. Just be honest with the kids about how your new love makes you happy and you wish you could all be happy together. Keep the communication open with the kids and let them know you are always there for them and now they have someone else they can talk to too. I had 2 kids and he had 3 plus 4 grandkids. It's been 5 years and I'm grammy Tami now and love every minute of it. Good Luck to you and relax, it will be fine.

Carolyn - posted on 05/13/2011

Well when I met my husband I had 2 kids from a previous common-law relationship and my husband treats them like his own. They even call him Dad. Now we have a baby together and expecting another in January and everything is just getting better. Good Luck.

Hollie - posted on 05/13/2011

Oh yes good luck keep us posted please.

Hollie - posted on 05/13/2011

yes and no, it has its up and downs, everyone usually thinks it will work because they love their spouse, however getting along kids wise is another thing

Tracy - posted on 05/12/2011

Thank you Louise :)

Louise - posted on 05/12/2011

This is going to be a busy household. Just make sure everybody knows the house rules and every body pulls there weight and you will be fine. Once you establish your routine and the kids have settled into everyday life things will settle down a lot. It is getting things like where his son fits in in the pecking order of things and for the other children to accept him that will take time. Good luck to you.