As stepparents, what’s the best way we can support our partners (and protect ourselves) when they’re stuck co-parenting with a narcissistic ex?

The usual co-parenting tips don't apply when you're dealing with a difficult or high-conflict ex, and can even make things worse. Here's why... plus a list of what you should try instead.

Will stepparenting ever feel easier? Will blended family ever feel simple? And — most importantly — WHEN??

Now that we know how Game of Thrones ends, looking back at the beginning brings up all kinds of obvious-in-retrospect foreshadowing. Kinda like blending a family.

Do stepparents have a double standard when it comes to stepkids vs. bio kids? They do and they should, but it’s not the kind of double standard you’re thinking. Sometimes, taking a more flexible approach to parenting is ultimately the fairest answer.

If you disengage from your stepkid and step back from stepparenting, could you actually become a better stepmom or stepdad? YEP. Disengaging can be an act of love that gives everyone in your blended family the room they need to blend.

Are your blended family Christmas traditions at risk of being ruined by a high conflict ex and crazy custody schedules? These tips can bring some peace of mind at the holidays.

Does taking the high road as a stepparent feel like it gets you absolutely nowhere? Join the club! But taking the high road with the ex can be its own reward, even if you're not getting any points with your stepkid for it.

As much as we assume that every good stepparent unconditionally loves their stepkids from day one, that's NOT the typical experience. Love is a bonus, not a requirement.

Is hanging onto your idea of how your stepkids "should" act or how a stepparent "should" feel about their stepkids keeping you from enjoying your blended family?

For the stepmoms who feel unappreciated by their blended families on Mother’s Day.

What do I do when my stepdaughter hates me, even after YEARS together? I keep trying, stepparents. Because this stepmom gig is the long con, and I am determined to rise above.

Hey stepparents, worried you're overstepping? Unless you've recently hired a huntsman to bring your stepkid's heart to you on a silver platter, you're probably good.

As a stepparent, you can't fight every fight. Choose your battles wisely and learn when letting go is the better option for you, your stepkid, and your blended family.

Ever feel like your blended family doesn't count as a “real” family? Yeah, that's me today.

After years of parental alienation, today my stepdaughter is cheerful and chatty, the total opposite of the sullen, monosyllabic presence I’d come to associate with her visitation time.