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Helping skids transition-any good ideas?

kidsaplenty's picture

Submitted by kidsaplenty on Wed, 12/09/2009 - 6:45pm

So I was wondering if any of you have any special ways you help the skids transition for eow visitation? I did not come from a blended family and can only imagine it is really hard to pick up and assimilate into a ncp's household a couple times a month with a whole new set of rules, expectations, and environment. Anything that helped any of you as skids when you were young or that you do for your own? We were thinking of maybe starting some routines like play a certain game, talk about things we'd like to do for the weekend (kinda family meeting style) and go through reminders of behavior expectations at that time. Any other ideas?

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vgill's picture

Submitted by vgill on Wed, 12/09/2009 - 8:17pm

We try having Dh pick up his boy and on the drive home he reminds him of the rules and what will be going on this weekend(doesn't help too much though) maybe this will work for you. While Dh is picking up SS14 I hide things and lock things away, so he doesn't take or break things!

Kb3Hooah's picture

Submitted by Kb3Hooah on Wed, 12/09/2009 - 8:22pm

I completely agree with Crystal on the Routine and structure. Also, we have family night one night, which all of the kids, skids too, really really enjoy! It makes everyone involved feel "part of the family".

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“Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go.”

Pantera's picture

Submitted by Pantera on Thu, 12/10/2009 - 8:07am

I also completely agree with Routines. Try not to change your schedule too much. And DO NOT become the Disneyland house! If it is at all possible, try to stay on the same page as the other Bio Parent. I think having a "family night" is a great idea.

"If I turn into another, Dig me up from under what is covering the better part of me" -Incubus

kidsaplenty's picture

Submitted by kidsaplenty on Thu, 12/10/2009 - 8:18am

Thanks for all the great responses. I think we will try to identify something to do that is the same each time (I'm thinking maybe baking something for the snack that night though Betty Crocker I'm not!) and use that time to talk about rules/plans for the weekend/get input into what we would all like to do.