When two people marry, each needs to be willing to compromise. When one or both of those people bring with them dependent children, those compromises become more complicated. Families must decide whether they will just share living space or if they will blend into a new family unit. Some families find blending easy. For others, it is very difficult.
Studies show the age of children involved in blending is important.
Knowing typical reactions and thoughts of different ages may help us know how to handle tensions. Following are some typical reactions and thoughts of children at different ages. For them, divorce is seldom final. Because they believe their family may one day be reunited, remarriage may be a threat. Parents can help by being sensitive to these feelings, frequently reassuring and listening to their preschool-aged children.