Do you find yourself going on the defensive with your spouse? 🙋 Defensiveness is a form of blame. 🫵 But there's a powerful alternative! Comment "229" for links to the full episode and for information about getting a copy of the Deal's book, "The Mindful Marriage." #connectedfams #christianfamilies #faithfulfamilies #respectfulparenting #christianparenting #childrensdiscipleship #marriage #relationships #couplegoals (fb)

In this bonus episode, Jim Jackson and Ron Deal (@ron.l.deal) discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of blended families through the lens of the Connected Families Framework. Ron, a bestselling author and host of the Family Life Blended podcast (@familylifeblended), shares his 30+ years of expertise in step-family dynamics. The conversation explores how step-parents can build emotional safety with children who may be resistant to new relationships. Ron emphasizes that safety must precede love, explaining that children often bristle against a step-parent's affection due to grief, loyalty conflicts, or simply not being ready for that relationship. Key insights include: - The importance of "pacing" with children at their readiness level - How step-parents can acknowledge their role without trying to replace biological parents - Practical approaches to discipline and household rules when facing resistance - Building respectful relationships with biological parents in the other household 🎧 https://connectedfamilies.org/love-your-stepchildren-well-ron-deal-ep-230/ #stepparent #blendedfamily #christianfamily #connectedfams #respectfulparenting #christianparenting (fb)