Support Groups

I've finally found a step-parent support group. Though it is small with around 3-5 families, I've gained tremendous insights. The dynamics of a step-family are really varied... the step-parent may be the father, mother or even both. Even in the category of stepmothers, the family background is just as diverse. One stepmother is only 6 months into her marriage with 2 stepdaughters whose biological mum had passed away. Where blended families are concerned, the profile is equally interesting. One mum with her daughter married another man with 5 sons and together, they are parents and step-parents to 6 kids living under the same roof! Talk about having a challenging job...
I've also joined a mothers' praying support group in my daughter's school... although I've only been to 2 meetings so far, I must say the mothers have been really nice and sincere. However, I cannot help but feel a little out of place as I seem to be the only one with the most problems... struggling with my girl having 'nothing to do at home after school', not returning home after school but hanging out at undesirable spots eg shopping malls, game arcades, basketball courts, etc.
Sigh! Looks like I need to join more support groups...another one for parents with teenagers (since my son has just started secondary school) and one more for parents with toddlers (since my baby is 13 months+)... But I really hope and want to meet more step-parents, especially step-mothers with step-daughters who have survived that teenage phase...