081. How a Missing Bio-Parent Impacts Kids in the Delicate Blending Process (Part 1)
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The best scenario for kids is when they can have a healthy relationship with both of the parents they love. Most kids really want to be connected to both of their bio-parents.
Sadly, many kids in blended families have a gaping hole in their life because one of their parents is absent. Whether a parent's absence is due to abandonment, inconsistency, or death — the impact can be heartbreaking.
Missing a parent who is absent can be one of the hardest realities for kids to work through. And it might be one of the most challenging struggles for the remaining parent to face. Watching your kids grieve over that missing relationship they long for can leave you feeling helpless.
But if you're feeling like there's nothing you can do, we want to bring you some encouragement in this episode.
We're discussing this sensitive topic to understand how kid's grieve the loss of a parent — and how you can best respond when you're left to pick up the pieces.
We'll also explore how this dynamic might impact the blending process. It can sometimes create unique barriers in a child's ability to accept a step-parent.
If you or someone you know is facing this reality in their blended family, please don't miss this episode.
You'll Discover:
How kids experience different kinds of grief
Why they can idealize their missing parent and how that impacts you
Why it's important to create a 'safe space' for kids when they're struggling
How to keep connecting to grieving kids and create security for all the relationships in the home
How to navigate the fine line of speaking truth without dashing the kid's hopes and dreams of reconnecting with their disengaged parent
Resources from this Episode:
Episode 8: Toxic Exes and Hurting Kids - A Simple Strategy Against Lies and Slander
Book Recommendation: Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child by Dr. John Gottman
Ron Deal's Podcast Episode: When a Parent Goes M.I.A. with Andy and Heather Hetchler
Article: Where's Mom? The Disengaged Biological Parent by Ron Deal
Ready for personalized support? Schedule your free coaching call
We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help. You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home. Schedule your free call here: https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession
Feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to start?
With so many episodes available here on the show, it might feel a bit overwhelming to find the topics that matter most to you. That's why we've created the Blended Family Breakthrough Quiz which will direct you to the most impactful episodes that pertain to you personally.
Join our community
You don't need to navigate blended family life alone. Join our supportive community where you'll connect directly with us and other couples just like you who are intentionally investing in healthy blending strategies. Click the link to find out how to join: https://learning.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogether
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