Some advice for Stepkids

I’ve gotten a few emails from kids who live with one parent (usually their mother) and they feel “out of place” when they visit with their other parent (usually their father). Sometimes it’s awkward because their father has remarried and they’re not sure what to expect from their new stepmother. Other times, and this is obviously more serious, their father has married someone who has kids from her first marriage, so they don’t feel welcomed. Maybe you don’t even have a room or special place in your Dad’s new house. It’s a common circumstance, and so a common feeling, but I understand it doesn’t feel good. What can you do? Talk with your Dad. Let him know how you feel. Don’t assume he knows what you’re experiencing. In fact, he probably doesn’t see it at all! I know your Dad doesn’t live with your Mom anymore, but I bet he still loves you just the same. Good luck!
Dr. Rick