June Mead
The continued prevalence of divorce accompanied by a high remarriage rate has resulted in an increasing number of stepfamilies. Approximately 65% of these remarriages include children from previous relationships. These trends are compounded by the growing number of nonmarital births and cohabiting unions that lead to and form stepfamilies. A large proportion of low-income nonmarried couples are dealing with co-parenting and step-parenting issues. It is estimated that one in three children will spend time in a stepfamily-like household. The research is clear that stepfamilies experience unique family developmental patterns and face unique issues that are related to healthy marital and family functioning.
Recently, the CYFERnet Parent/Family Editorial Board, June P. Mead, Editor, in partnership with the National Extension Relationship and Marriage Education Network presented a webinar on what it takes to establish relationship and marriage enrichment, as well as parenting education programs that meet the unique needs of stepfamilies. This 90-minute training presented the latest research-based program resources and teaching strategies.
An archived version of the webinar is available through CYFERnet at: http://connect.extension.iastate.edu/p86239934/
Presenters
Francesca Adler-Baeder, Associate Professor of Human Development and Family Studies, Auburn University

Brian Higginbotham, Assistant Professor, Family-Life Extension Specialist, Utah State University

Ted Futris, Assistant Professor, Family-Life Extension Specialist, University of Georgia