With almost 50% of all marriages ending in divorce, 67% of second, and 74% of third marriages, it is no wonder that resources are needed to help these marriages and stepfamilies cope and understand the stepfamily dynamics, problems that arise, and how to navigate them within their everyday stepfamily life.
The number of second and third marriages failing into divorce is happening at a staggering rate. People often assume that multiple divorces translates to a lack of taking the commitment of marriage seriously, when in fact other factors are the reasons these relationships are failing. Making the same mistakes repeatedly, their past influencing their present, and unhealed wounds from previous relationships are a few of the many reasons why stepfamily relationships can be so challenging. Individuals and couples that find themselves up against tough situations like these, don’t know where to turn for help. Some ask friends and family for advice while others turn to resources online, books, and articles. However, most find the lack of resources overwhelming.
Currently, easily accessible resources centered around stepfamily issues, topics, and tips are primarily found in books. It is extremely hard to find a well-rounded balance of resources containing books, webinars, events, videos, and groups to support stepfamilies and stepcouples in one place. With the number of stepfamilies on the rise, it is evident that more and more resources, tips, and tools with easy access are needed to support these families. This week in Utah, the two-day Smart Stepfamily Conference is being held for these very reasons.
THE SMART STEPFAMILY CONFERENCE
Stepfamily couples, single parents, and dating couples with children will be learning how to not only survive, but thrive in their family from some of the nation’s leading experts on stepfamily dynamics, including keynote sessions from Ron Deal and Laura Petherbridge.
During this two-day event, they will attend nine different sessions on topics including:
Prioritizing your marriage
Pillars of stepfamily success
Stepfamily finances
Dealing with a difficult ex
Overcoming attachment and loss
And so much more!
With a panel discussion including time for Q&A and the chance to make some real connections with other stepparents, attendees will also be given many tools, insights, what-to-do and not-do tips, practical advice, inspiration, answers to their questions, heartwarming success stories, and the motivation to go back home and put into action strategies and practices that will strengthen their relationship and their family unit.
STEPFAMILY NETWORK FAMILY NON-PROFIT
Charlene and Stephen Roberts with Stepfamily Network, sees and understands the need for resources and has experienced the hardships of stepfamilies first hand. Because of all they have gone through and what they have learned, Charlene and Stephen started their non-profit organization, Stepfamily Network, and their Stepfamily Events Programs to help stepfamilies and stepcouples like them to have the tools for a stronger relationship and a more peaceful family life.
Click to read their full story, THE STORY OF US: THE TRIALS & TRIUMPHS OF A BLENDED FAMILY