Being a former teacher, I thought I had a distinct advantage over other future step parents. I had exposure to classrooms at virtually all grade levels, particular those 6 through 8, which is the grade cluster my eventual step daughter was enrolled in at the time my future wife and I first met. My future step daughter was only 10 years old at the time I first entered her young life back in 2006.

Step Parenting A Roller Coaster Ride

To say that our relationship has been a roller-coaster is an understatement. My step daughter is of her own mind and, like almost any teenager, is of the opinion that she has both the questions and answers to all life matters in her possession. That I can frequently be as stubborn as a mule has only added high-octane fuel to the occasional flare-ups between my step-daughter and me.

My initial mistake - and it was a big one - was believing that my teaching background would enable to me quickly and effectively transform me into a super-parent. My training in (lesson) planning, classroom management and interpersonal skill-building were my ticket to becoming an overnight father and disciplinarian. Wow, was I wrong!