"Introduction
& Goals"
Carri & Gordon briefly introduce themselves, others in the Series
& tell the goal of the project.
"Lenses of Communication"
The #1 skill in all relationships is communication - this is particularly
true in the intense, committed relationship we call marriage. Carri
developed "The Lenses" to show you the filters and layers
that can cause communication collisions. You will hear the communication
accidents & repairs from other couples as well as how to "cross
the street" into another person's world.
"Apples & Oranges"
First marriages are apples - subsequent marriages are oranges. In
this presentation basic fundamental differences between the two will
be explored that many people don't think about. The stepfamily forms
backwards from the biological family. Without recognizing & preparing
for these differences, the stepfamily - and those working with them
- can get set up for major problems.
"The Bio-Force
Meets the Weakest Link"
The most unpredictable element in stepfamily formation is relationship
development. This presentation explores & literally draws out,
how individuals bond & relationships develop in the stepfamily.
This is also contrasted with the biological family.
"Step-Discipline"
The parenting problems presented here are universal to stepfamilies
where one or both bring children. Learning the important principles
of stepparenting & discipline will enhance the chance for remarriage
success & couple satisfaction. Other couples share their failures
& successes in handling discipline.
"Money & Stuff
Every marriage has to handle money & stuff. With a remarriage
this is amplified because we've accumulated assets, debts &
stuff. Different models of financial management - along with the
struggles & victories of other couples - are presented.
"What About Us?"
In Apples & Oranges the differences between first families and
subsequent families and how stepfamilies form backwards were presented.
Because the couple relationship also forms backwards, the issues facing
the developing remarried couple relationship can be confusing &
emotionally charged. Among the concepts presented are "reclaiming
the territory" & the "tasks of remarriage."
"Stages of Stepfamily
War Pt. 1"
Many remarried couples are surprised to find the stepfamily jungle
a confusing & sometimes dangerous place to hang out. How to survive
(by identifying the emotional landmines) & win (by dealing with
them productively) is presented. This is filled with the life experiences
of stepcouples & stepkids as they relate their travels through
"World Peace," "Diplomatic Breakdown," and "Battle
Engagement" of the development cycle.
"Stages of Stepfamily
War Pt. 2"
The drama continues as the principles are outlined and illustrated
by stepcouples & stepkids sharing their continuing journey through
"Infrastructure Rebuilding" and land in the "Post War
Era." "Stages..." is a must-see.
Designing Dynamic Stepfamilies - The Series - Order Information - The Taylors
Copyright 2015 Designing Dynamic Stepfamilies.