Stepfamily Association

Leaders Manual - Making Stepfamilies Work (Stepfamily Association of Victoria)

This manual is clearly set out and easy to use. The introduction outlines information necessary for successful running of the course. Each session includes a warm up exercise, minitalks and experiential exercises to facilitate learning. Clear instructions for background reading, any specific preparation required for each session, teaching materials and handouts to photocopy are all specified.

Making Stepfamilies Work course is a new innovative course for couples either in a stepfamily or contemplating so doing. Being founded on family therapy theory the course views the stepfamily as a post modern family - one which requires new ways of being and doing. It offers opportunity for individuals to express and acknowledge their emotional response to living in a stepfamily. It offers creative solutions based on a stepfamily model rather than a biological one. The course is flexible to meet a variety of needs. It can be conducted as outlined or modified into a workshop format. Segments can be used separately: for information sessions, for running support groups or in therapeutic settings.