AboutJ.L. Slipak Expertise Over the last 19 years, I have been researching the issue of stepparenting/stepchildren and living life as a blended family. I have 4 stepchildren. I am available to answer any questions regarding parenting a stepchild/stepchildren and will base my answers using my own personal experience with 4 of my own.
I'm an advocate for children with special needs and have worked in the legal area of Family Law and Civil Law for 7 years. I'm a published writer of this subject. I have dealt with many issues including: dealing with the biological parent, eating disorders, relationships between siblings, education, access, etc. I can offer support, personal opinions and resources based on research I've used while writing about these subjects. Don't ask me any questions that you have the answers for already. Make sure you include all information pertaining to the question at hand, as I base my answers on what you've sent me. Remember, this is just my opinion and nothing else. I wish all stepparents great success with their perspective lives. Remember it takes a lot to step in when others have stepped out.
Experience
Education/Credentials BFA, working towards my Masters. Stepparent of 4 stepchildren.Bioparent of two, all inclusive of two special needs children: one down syndrome; the other ODD/ADD.
Question Hi, I have a 12 yr old step daughter and she visits on the weekends. To make a long story short we have another daughter and she now needs the one bed we have available. We do have a pull out sofa bed in the living area. My concern is that the "ex" will say this is not right and threaten us with custody or something? Please help!
Answer Hello Fawne,
Yes, you are correct. Your step-daughter should have her own place to sleep and ideally, her own room. As she grows older, she will require privacy. If you make the child feel like she's a guest instead of part of the family, you could open a can of worms to problems you don't want to deal with. Do your best to avoid this.
