Active Parenting for Stepfamilies

by Michael H. Popkin, PhD,
and Elizabeth Einstein, MA, LMFT

a new video-based program you can use to help parents and stepparents build a powerful parenting team, strengthen their marriage, and guide their children through the transition to a new family—in just six sessions!

Getting married is the easy part! When a stepfamily is formed, everyone needs to learn new rules: Mom and Dad need to learn how to work together as a team. Children and teens must adapt to changes. Everyone needs to build good relationships with new family members.

Active Parenting for Stepfamilies is here to help! Use this new video-based discussion program to help couples work together to raise children in the challenging stepfamily environment. With this program, you will also teach how to use powerful communication and negotiation skills to strengthen marriage and family. Designed both for parents and stepparents, Active Parenting for Stepfamilies is also useful for foster parents, adoptive parents, single parents and others affected by loss and change. The program combines the knowledge of Active Parenting author Michael Popkin and stepfamily expert Elizabeth Einstein.

It’s easy to lead a group using our video and group discussion format!
The Leader’s Guide, included in the Program Kit version of the program, gives you step-by-step instructions on when to show the video portions and how to lead the discussions. The optional PowerPoint presentation helps by projecting key points so parents can see them while you are explaining.

Participants follow along using their Parent’s Guides, which offer examples and activities so they can practice their new skills at home. We recommend holding six 2.5-hour sessions with a group of 10 to 20 parents. The program is flexible, however, so you can choose a format that works for you.

Different formats will help you reach different groups!
Need a shorter class? A "lunch & learn" version of the program is available so you can provide one-topic classes in under an hour. Mix and match the topics as needed.

The information is also available in a series of 6 self-contained DVDs that parents can watch at their leisure...perfect for resource libraries. You can even arrange for broadcast rights to reach thousands of parents in their own homes!

Leader training will enhance your effectiveness
Although the Leader's Guide provides step-by-step instructions, you may benefit from a Leader Training Workshop (LTW). At the LTW, an experienced parent educator will tell you what works and what doesn't. You will also be able to share ideas with colleagues. Click here for more information, or contact our Training Coordinator at 1-800-825-0060 x120.

Here’s what you’ll teach in each session:

• Session I: Stepfamily Living - A Different Parenting Challenge
  – Emotional baggage
  – Coping with loss
  – Realistic expectations
  – Styles of parenting
  – Relationship-building skills
• Session II: Communication and Problem-Solving
  – Roles of stepparents
  – Effective communication
  – A model for handling problems
• Session III: Loyalties and Values
  – Merging different values and cultures
  – Establishing limits (of space, time, authority, money)
  – Understanding triangles/loyalty conflicts
• Session IV: The Challenge of Discipline
  – Effective, nonviolent discipline
  – Logical consequences
  – Stepfamily considerations
  – Kids who live in two households
• Session V: From Power Struggles and Anger to Courage and Self-Esteem
  – The “FLAC” method of defusing power struggles
  – Building courage and self-esteem
  – Understanding children's anger
  – Nurturing by encouragement
• Session VI: Celebrating Stepfamily Successes
  – Making a conscious commitment
  – Celebrating your achievements
  – Maintaining stepfamily success
  – Protecting children from risks

  Winner! Bronze Telly Award