1 in 3 current American teens will become members of blended families by age 18.

Youth under the age of 10 may find the adjustment to a blended family easier-Adolescents age 10-14 may experience the greatest difficulty adjusting.

Teens 15+ may experience relatively little difficulty adjusting because of their developmental needs for separation.

www.stepfamilies.info/faqs/myths.php

www.divorcepeers.com/

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www.focusas.com/Stepfamily.html

Reassure your teen that the divorce/death was not their fault and invite questions and discussion. Start talking about the possibility of blending your family long before a new marriage.

Allow bonds with new family members to evolve slowly; give your teens the time to adjust to the new situation. Spend time with each teen and stepchild to help establish a sense of belonging and new traditions.

Let your stepchildren decide what they want to call you. Their comfort level is important. Make alone time with your spouse. Raising teens is a challenge. A strong marriage will help you blend families together.