If you’re dating someone with kids in the picture and you’re wondering, “When should we move in together with our kids?” You’re at the right place.
Jaime Bronstein, Licensed Relationship Therapist and Author of “MAN*ifesting: A Step-By-Step Guide to Attracting The Love That’s Meant for You,” shares important advice. She has 20 years of experience and has been named “The #1 Relationship Coach Transforming Lives” by Yahoo.
“Every situation is so different because sometimes people luck out and have 4 to 8 nice individuals, children and adults all together, and other times it’s really difficult,” she starts off.
When is a better time to move in together as a blended family?
“Wait at least one year to move in” together. “It is really important not to do the blended family living together too early.”
While introducing potential blended family members to each other is okay, other factors must be considered at all stages.
“It depends on the kids’ age and emotional intelligence,” Bronstein says.
While a year may sound so far off, she states, “after a year, things have settled. It’s not a long time.”
Before moving in together and once all are situated in the new living dynamic, one thing remains paramount.
What is the most important thing before moving in together and once living together?
Communication is paramount in every relationship.
“I always encourage people to share how they are feeling.” This can be achieved through “a family meeting every month.”
Having family meetings allows everyone to “communicate” and puts assumptions aside.
Bronstein encourages couples to “check-in, especially with the kids, if you sense they need therapy.”
What often happens in blended family dynamics?
“Children, especially younger ones, have so many questions, and if the parent isn’t checking in, they think everything is okay,” and that may not be the case.
“Give your children the opportunity to use their voice,” she continues. This will make for a happier and healthier family.