Enjoy Reading? Then visit the Stepfamily Bookstore

Good evening again,

I know I just posted… anyway, I did want to spread the word that I have hand selected some of my favorite books regarding stepfamilies, along with ones that I want to read, and put them all into one easy webpage.

Check it out: Stepfamily Bookstore

Exciting new E-Course! For FREE!

Hello all!

First, I would like to announce the opening of my new website!  Please check it out:

www.parentcoach.strengtheningourstepfamilies.com

Next, I am excited to announce my new E-Course!  It is free!  Here listen to one of the lessons to get an idea of what it is about:

Click here: http://parentcoach.strengtheningourstepfamilies.com/ecourses.html

I already posted some information about this ecourse (just scroll down) but I am about to publish the 2nd to the series and I felt that it is worth mentioning the first again before I do.

Here’s to Stepfamily Success!

Christine Stansbury

Telecourse for Stepparents Is Full But There’s More Where that Came From!

Hello!  I am very excited to announce that the telecourse Smart Steps: Embrace the Journey is full.  But don’t worry you have not missed your chance to participate. 

Coming on November 10th you will be able to participate for FREE in the first class of this 6 course series. 

Email Christine Stansbury at cms@strengtheningourstepfamilies.com now because space is limited!

I am looking forward to meeting you!

Christine Stansbury

Stepfamily Living E-Course

Stepfamily Living Series:

Stepfamily Living Part One: This 9 day e-course identifies the three major challenges that stepfamilies face.  It explores the different losses that all members of stepfamilies go through and the different stages of grief that may follow.  This e-course also explores unrealistic expectations and roles and relationships and helps to form realistic ones.  Parents are also encouraged to consider their parenting styles and to explore how to utilize different techniques for disciplining in order for their to be mutual respect. 

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This 6 Part series are 8-9 days of lessons that are delivered straight to your email. 

Stepfamilies are very dynamic by nature and due to this they do not necessarily have more conflict but rather different conflict situations than the traditional family.  Some of these unique stepfamily dynamics that may create conflict are:

1)      Stepparent-child relationship

2)      Ex-spouses

3)      Visitation

4)      Different house rules

5)      Former In-Laws

6)      Stepsibling relationships

7)      Custody arrangements

8)      Child support issues

9)      Differing parenting values between parent and stepparent

10)   Baggage from old relationships

In addition, adults, adolescents and children have suffered many losses due to the divorce that they unknowling may revisit upon the creation of a stepfamily.

Parenting is a very challenging task to say the very least!  Well, this is one series of 6 that will help guide you to utilize an effective and consistent parenting model.

Free!  Listen to a lesson and sign up for this Email Course Now!

Visit: http://parentcoach.strengtheningourstepfamilies.com/ecourses.html 

Contact Christine Stansbury by emailing cms@strengtheningourstepfamilies.com   
for more information or submit an email form.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Announcement: New Telecourse for Stepparents!

Telecourse-Smart Steps: Embrace the Journey

Visit: www.parentcoach.strengtheningourstepfamilies.com  

• Take charge of your role in your stepfamily now!
• Learn the skills to become the stepparent you want to be!
• Enhance your communication skills in the family and with your partner.
• Understand the evolving stages of belonging to a stepfamily.

The 9-hour research-based program focuses on building family strengths for stepfamily couples.

 

 

The Program will make use of:

• Informational Presentations
• Hands-on exercises
• Group discussion
• Powerpoint presentation

Participants will walk away with:

• Improved knowledge about stepfamilies
• Validation of their experiences
• Strengthened family relationships
• Agreement on family roles
• Enhanced skills in: communicating, co-parenting, managing conflict, and adjusting to change

Telecourse Schedule:

• Optional Free 45 min. Introduction Session (this is an opportunity to meet your cohorts and ask questions about the course.) 

Date: 10/05/08       Time: 5:00 pm- 5:45 pm MST

*RSVP by 10/03/08 to active@strengtheningourstepfamilies.com

*All Session Times are:

• 6:00-7:30pm Pacific Time 
• 7:00-8:30 pm Mountain Standard Time
• 8:00-9:30 pm Central Time
• 9:00-10:30 pm Eastern Time 

*6- 1 1/2 hour Sessions ($15/ea):

• Session 1 10/06/08: Families Today
• Session 2 10/13/08: Changes in You and Your Family
• Session 3 10/20/08: Where Are You Coming From?
• Session 4 10/27/08: Strengthening the Couple Relationship 
• Session 5 11/03/08: Connections
• Session 6 11/10/08: Building Family Strengths  

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  Contact Christine Stansbury by emailing cms@strengtheningourstepfamilies.com. 

 

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New Networking Site for Stepparents

Hello everyone! 

I have created a social network just for stepparents to meet and give and receive support for one another.  Being a stepparent can feel like a lonely adventure!  This site is free and open to all.  So, here’s your chance to meet other stepparents who likely either can relate or help with whatever is going on for you. 

To join visit: http://strengtheningourstepfamilies.ning.com

I look forward to seeing you there!

Christine Stansbury, M.A., L.C.P.C. & Stepmom

www.strengtheningourstepfamilies.com

Members Update!

Dear Members,

I now have a website just for you!  This will be where you can access informative articles, book reviews, S.O.S. Newsletters and more all in one location!

Also, since the membership is still a rather new service I am offering any input, suggestions or needs that you have please send them my way! Email me at cms@strengtheningourstepfamilies.com.

Sincerely,

Christine Stansbury, M.A., L.C.P.C.

www.strengtheningourstepfamilies.com

Call Now- Update

Good news!  Now, I am now not using Skype as the only Call Now number which means you do not have to buy minutes ahead of time.  Instead, I am utilizing a company www.ether.com.  You can set up an account with them quickly either by phone or online. Once you have your pin you will never have to enter your information again! It’s easy and you do not have to buy minutes ahead of time to make the call.  It’s also a toll free number so if you use your landline you will not be charged.

Try it out and give me a call! 

ChristineStansbury  1.888.693.8437 ext. 03032997

I look forward to hearing from you! 

Christine Stansbury, M.A., L.C.P.C. & Stepmom

www.strengtheningourstepfamilies.com

Book Review- The Courage to be a Stepmom: Finding Your Place Without Losing Yourself

Sue Patton Thoele takes you on the journey of stepmothering in her book The Courage to be a Stepmom: Finding Your Place without Losing Yourself through her interviews of stepmothers who are experiencing the same questions, concerns, and frustrations as you. Not only does she provide examples of women who are experiencing a similar rollercoaster ride but she also provides enlightening words of wisdom. Read More…

To purchase the book click here:   The Courage to be a Stepmom

Or follow this link to join The Courage to be a Stepmom Support Group

“You’re not my ___ (mother/father)”

The first time I heard this phrase my heart clenched.  Then, I caught my eleven year old stepson’s eyes and saw the expression on his face. He had the look of “oh oh, what is she going to do?” … Read More