15 Step Parenting Books That Will Make the Difference

Let’s be honest, being a parent is hard, and being a stepparent can be the most difficult thing you’ve ever done in your life. 

Most likely, there will be hurdles to encounter on your path to stepparenting. Nonetheless, it can also be the most rewarding experience, especially if your and your new spouse’s families merged into one huge bundle of laughter and chaos.

If you find yourself a stepparent dealing with difficult situations, you might be amazed by how much your life can become easier if you read certain insightful step parenting books.

Dionne Eleanor, Relationship and Empowerment Mentor states that, 

When navigating the complexities of stepparenting, wisdom is sometimes challenging to access because every child and adult involved has their unresolved issues. 

How does step parenting affect a child?

Step parenting can have a significant impact on a child’s emotional and psychological well-being. Children may experience a range of emotions such as confusion, anger, and resentment when their parents separate and new partners enter their lives. 

The arrival of a step-parent can lead to changes in family dynamics, including new rules, routines, and expectations. Children may struggle to adapt to these changes, which can cause anxiety and stress. 

Additionally, there may be challenges in building a relationship with a new parent, especially if the child feels loyalty conflicts with their biological parent. Overall, the effects of step parenting on a child depend on many factors, including their age, personality, and the quality of the relationship with the new parent.

15 step parenting books that will make the difference

Check out this selection of step parenting books on how to survive and thrive as a stepparent.

1. Wisdom on Stepparenting: How to Succeed Where Others Fail – by Diana Weiss-Wisdom Ph.D.

Diana Weiss-Wisdom, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist who works as a relationship and family counselor, and as such, her work would be a significant contribution by itself. Nonetheless, she is also a stepdaughter and a stepmother herself.

Therefore, as you will see from her writing, her work is a combination of professional knowledge and personal insight. This makes the book an invaluable resource for everyone who faces the many challenges of raising their spouse’s children.

Her book on step-parenting offers both practical techniques and tips for new step-families and personal stories from her clients’ experiences. As the author says, becoming a stepparent isn’t something you’ve chosen to do, it’s something that happens to you.

For that reason, it is necessarily very challenging, but her book will equip you with the right tools and doable coping skills. It will also give you the optimism you need to achieve the healthy and loving blended family you’re hoping for.

2. The Single Girl’s Guide to Marrying a Man, His Kids, and His Ex-Wife: Becoming A Stepmother With Humor And Grace – by Sally Bjornsen

Like the previous author, Bjornsen is a stepmom and a writer. Her book isn’t all that psychology-oriented as the previous step parenting books, but what it gives you is an honest first-hand experience. And, not to disregard, the humor. 

Every new stepmom needs it more than ever and it is definitely one of the best step-parenting books you can have on your bookshelf.

With a touch of humor, you’ll be able to find a balance between your feelings and your desire to meet everyone’s needs and be a good new person in the kids’ lives.

The book has several segments – the one on the kids guides you through normal and expected but hard-to-handle issues, such as resentment, adjustment, being reserved etc. 

The next segment discusses the prospect of living in harmony with the biological mother, followed by the segment on holidays, new and old family traditions, and practices. 

Finally, it touches on how to keep the passion and the romance alive when all a sudden your life is overtaken by his kids without having a chance to prepare for it.

3. The Smart Stepfamily: Seven Steps to a Healthy Family – by Ron L. Deal

Among the step-parenting books, this is one of the bestsellers, and for a good reason. The author is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a founder of Smart Stepfamilies, Director of FamilyLife Blended.

He is a frequent speaker in national media. Therefore, this is THE book to buy and share with friends who are looking for step parenting books.

In it, you’ll find seven simple and practical steps to preventing and resolving problems that most (if not all) blended families face. It’s realistic and genuine and comes from the author’s extensive practice in this area. 

You’ll learn how to communicate with the Ex, how to resolve common hurdles and how to manage finances in such a family, and much more.

4. Stepmonster: A New Look at why Real Stepmothers Think, Feel, and Act the Way We Do – by Wednesday Martin

The author of this book is a writer and social researcher, and, most importantly, an expert on step parenting books and issues who has appeared on many shows discussing the problems that blended families face.

Her book became an instant New York Times bestseller. This book provides a combination of science, social research, and personal experience.

Interestingly, the author discusses the evolutionary approach to why it can be so challenging to be a stepmother. Stepmoms are often blamed for their failures in establishing a healthy relationship between themselves and the kids – think of Cinderella, Snow White, and pretty much every fairytale.

This book busts the myth of stepmothers being the step monsters and shows how there are five “step-dilemmas” that create conflict in blended families. And it takes two (or more) to tango!

5. The Smart Stepmom: Practical Steps to Help You Thrive – by Ron L. Deal, Laura Petherbridge

The role of a stepmother can be ambiguous and underappreciated, often with unrealistic expectations. This book offers answers to concerns and questions women may have, such as how to be a caretaker and emotional connector when the children may not accept their influence. 

It also addresses challenges such as coping with children who are torn between loyalty to their biological mother and the stepmother, and when to step back or insist that their husband stand up for them. 

One of the most practical step parenting books, it also considers the emotional and spiritual atmosphere of the home, providing guidance for stepmothers to help their families thrive.

6. The Stepmoms’ Club: How to Be a Stepmom Without Losing Your Money, Your Mind, and Your Marriage – by Kendall Rose

Have you found the partner of your dreams and started your happily ever after, only to discover that you’ve also taken on the role of stepmom, without knowing what it entails? 

We are here to help. As stepmoms who have been through it all, here is a guide full of solutions to the most common stepmom struggles, including navigating demands from a difficult ex-partner, managing the financial hurdles of a blended family, and handling legal battles and custody arrangements.

This guide, written by stepmoms for stepmoms, offers practical tips, relatable anecdotes, and words of wisdom to help you find success and support within your new family dynamic.

7. The Happy Stepmother: Stay Sane, Empower Yourself, Thrive in Your New Family – by Rachelle Katz

It is good for those looking for thorough and best step parenting books and guides.

Dr. Rachelle Katz, a stepmother, therapist, and the founder of the well-known website stepsforstepmothers.com, is intimately familiar with the difficulties of stepmotherhood. Drawing from extensive research and thousands of interviews, she has developed a powerful program in this book to assist you in:

• Reducing stress and prioritizing self-care
• Establishing a connection with your new family
• Defining and enforcing clear boundaries
• Earning the respect you deserve
• Strengthening your relationship with your partner and stepchildren

Related Reading: 10 Effective Tips to Become a Good Stepmom

8. Stepmom Bootcamp: A 21-Day Challenge – by Elizabeth Mosaidis

One of the best books on step parenting, this one is a task-based guide.

Join the 21-day stepmom boot camp and start taking steps towards a better stepfamily life. Developed by Elizabeth Mosaidis through research and practice, this program is designed to challenge and transform your life as a stepmom. 

With daily readings, challenges, and reflections, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself in your role as a stepmom and be empowered to make positive changes in your life.  One of the must-read step parenting books available today.

9. Quiet Moments for the Stepmom Soul: Encouragement for the Journey – by Laura Petherbridge, Heather Hetchler, et al.

Are you a stepmom seeking reassurance and comfort for your weary soul? Do you yearn for peace, power, and purpose in your daily life? Look no further than the devotional, Quiet Moments for the Stepmom Soul. 

Over the course of 90 days, three seasoned stepmoms – Laura, Gayla, and Heather – offer encouragement, comfort, and insightful reflections to help you find solace and renewed enthusiasm through this book. 

Curl up and unwind with this devotional, and let these wise and compassionate women provide a soothing balm for the challenges faced by today’s stepmoms.

10. Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships: What Works and What Doesn’t – by Patricia L. Papernow

Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships leverages the latest research, diverse clinical modalities, and three decades of experience working with stepfamily members to outline the distinct difficulties faced by stepfamilies. 

The book introduces the concept of “stepfamily architecture” and its five associated challenges and offers a comprehensive framework with three levels of strategies – psychoeducation, interpersonal skill-building, and intrapsychic work – for tackling these challenges across a multitude of settings. 

With this practical and comprehensive guide, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the unique dynamics of stepfamilies and develop the tools to navigate and thrive within them.

Related Reading: 10 Ways to Survive and Thrive in a Long Distance Relationship

11. The Stepfamily Handbook: Dating, Getting Serious, and Forming a “Blended Family” – by Karen Bonnell and Patricia Papernow

If you’re a parent who is dating, or dating a parent, The Stepfamily Handbook: From Dating to Getting Serious to Forming a ‘Blended Family’ is an indispensable guide that offers essential advice at every stage. 

Whether you’re embarking on those initial dates, navigating the inclusion of children, or taking the big step of moving in together, this book is tailored to your unique needs. 

With its comprehensive approach and practical insights, The Stepfamily Handbook will help you navigate the complexities of forming a blended family, and ensure that you and your partner are well-equipped for this exciting new chapter in your lives.

12. Blend: The Secret to Co-Parenting and Creating a Balanced Family – by Mashonda Tifrere

Mashonda Tifrere, together with her co-parents, Swizz Beatz and Grammy-Award-winning singer and songwriter Alicia Keys, shares a wise and inspiring guide to building a happy and healthy blended family. 

In this book, readers will find valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating the challenges of step-parenting and co-parenting, drawing on the authors’ personal experiences and expertise. 

Related Reading: Suggestions For Successfully Blending Families

13. The Smart Stepdad: Steps to Help You Succeed! – by Ron L. Deal

Although there are numerous resources available for stepmothers, stepfathers often find themselves without clear guidance. 

In his book, Ron Deal provides invaluable advice for men facing the challenges of stepfamily life. From connecting with stepchildren to being a positive and godly role model, Deal offers practical strategies for navigating the complexities of stepfamily dynamics.

14. Stepparenting with Grace: A Devotional for Blended Families – by Gayla Grace

If you’re a stepmom who feels lonely, overwhelmed or in need of guidance, these devotions can provide you with the companionship, encouragement, understanding, and biblical insights you need. 

Drawing on her experience as a seasoned stepmom, Grace, in this trusted resource, offers wisdom, comfort, and strength to help you navigate the rocky terrain of creating a blended family.

15. Step Parenting: 50 One-Minute DOs & DON’Ts for Stepdads & Stepmoms – by Randall Hicks

This book is the perfect solution for those who are tired of sifting through lengthy books in search of the key points. In “50 Quick Nuggets of Wisdom for the Stepfamily,” you’ll find concise one or two-page chapters accompanied by photos that eliminate any unnecessary fluff. 

These nuggets of wisdom are designed to benefit the entire stepfamily, including stepparents, existing parents, stepchildren, and step-siblings. It’s fast, easy, and insightful reading that gets straight to the point.

Related Reading: 15 Common Step Parenting Problems and How to Cope

5 useful tips on how to be a great step parent

Being a great step parent is not an easy task. It requires patience, understanding, and dedication. Here are five useful tips to help you be a great step parent:

Build a relationship with your stepchildren

Building a relationship with your stepchildren takes time, effort, and patience. Start by showing an interest in their interests and hobbies. Spend time doing things they enjoy and find common ground. Respect their boundaries, and don’t force yourself on them. 

Respect the biological parent

It is important to respect the biological parent and their role in their child’s life. Avoid speaking negatively about them or undermining their authority. Work together to create consistent rules and expectations for the children.

Communicate openly

Effective communication is essential in any relationship, including step-parenting. Establish open communication with your partner and stepchildren. Encourage them to express their feelings and concerns without fear of judgment. Be honest and transparent about your own feelings and concerns as well.

Set clear boundaries

Establishing clear boundaries is important for everyone in the family, including stepchildren. Work with your partner to set clear rules and expectations for the children. Stick to these boundaries and be consistent in enforcing them.

Take care of yourself

Being a step parent can be emotionally challenging. It’s important to take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally. Take time for yourself and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Seek support from friends, and family, or through couples therapy when needed.

Commonly asked questions

Here are some more questions and their answers to guide you further on how to be a good step parent and maintain a healthy environment within your family.

• Which parenting style is good for a step parent?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to which parenting style is good for a step parent. It depends on the individual situation and the personalities of the children and adults involved. 

However, it’s generally recommended for step parents to take on a supportive and collaborative parenting style that emphasizes clear communication, mutual respect, and consistency. You can also derive some inspiration from the best books about step parenting listed in this article.

Dionne Eleanor, Relationship and Empowerment Mentor points out, 

In the realm of stepfamily life, objective guidance is the key to transforming challenges into opportunities for unity.

• What problems do step parents face on a regular basis?

Step parents may face various problems on a regular basis, such as navigating the dynamics of a blended family, establishing a relationship with stepchildren, dealing with the ex-partner, managing conflicting parenting styles, and coping with feelings of isolation or resentment.

Watch Psychologist James Bray explain how to be a better step parent and how to succeed as a step family:

Be a loving, caring, and understanding step parent!

Struggling with step parenting is not an uncommon issue and requires a lot of resilience to be dealt with.

Dionne Eleanor, Relationship and Empowerment Mentor concludes, 

Each challenge in stepparenting is an opportunity to build resilience and create lasting bonds.

Creating a happy environment for your children and family as a step parent may seem challenging, but it is achievable with the right mindset, approach, and actions. By prioritizing open communication, mutual respect, and understanding, you can build a strong and loving bond with your stepchildren and spouse.

Remember to always keep the well-being of the children as the top priority, and don’t hesitate to seek help or support when needed. With patience, dedication, and positivity, you can create a harmonious and joyful blended family that everyone can thrive in.