The McIntyre Family

Part 7 - "We've got something to tell you": Zoe's View

Who do you relate to?

Click here to watch Part 7 - "We've got something to tell you"

Click here for Zoe's view

Click here for Chloe's view

Click here for Richie's view

Click here for Steve's view

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Counsellor Comments

Zoe was concerned about how the children would react to the news that she and Steve are getting married. Maybe she has underestimated just how hard Steve has been working on his relationship with Richie. It can be easy to forget that things have changed and got better. Let's hope that Zoe won't take Steve's efforts too much for granted! 

• Do you think she should have told the children without Steve there?
• Can you see that telling them when they are all together gives the view to the children that they are a new family and Steve is an integral part of it.
• This often helps when it comes to disciplining the children.If they are used to Stepdad being included in "family talks" then they are more likely to accept him telling them off or asking them to do things. It is important for them to accept him as someone who has authority in the same way that Mum does.
• It is important, too, for Zoe and Steve to talk about what role he will have in terms of decisions about the children and in enforcing family rules, and where their biological father still fits in to their lives. Talking about it early on will save misunderstandings later.