Step and Blended Families

Children in step/blended families may need to make sense of their separation/loss of one birth parent. Some children have never met this parent and face similar identity challenges as adopted children. For example, who do I look like? Does my dad/mum think of me? Did I do something wrong?

ARCS can assist you with talking to your child about their feelings of loss and also enable your child to express their wishes and thoughts about contact. We also assist with facilitating contact with a parent who has had no contact or a parent who had limited contact with their child.


Step-parent Adoptions

ARCS provides information, support and counselling on a wide range of step-parent adoption issues. Frequently asked questions include:

		Should I tell my child I am not his/her biological father/mother? How? When?
		What should I tell my child about his/her birthfather/mother?
		What do children understand at different ages?
		How will my child react to this information?
		How will this affect my relationship with my child?
		How do I adopt my stepchild?
		Are there alternatives to adoption?

To discuss these, or any other questions you may have, consult an ARCS counsellor on (08) 9370 4914

For additional information about Step Family Support services contact:

YMCA Phone: (08) 9227 4111