The dynamics of being a stepparent can be tricky. A new stepdad or stepmom in the home can often be a reminder that a child's biological mom or dad is absent. On today's Family Talk, Ron Deal, author of the best-selling book,
The Smart Stepfamily, explains that there are two keys to successful step-parenting. First, connect with the child to let him know you are understanding of his emotions concerning the turmoil. Second, do not attempt to "erase and replace" the biological parent. Like God, who lovingly and patiently pursues all of us, stepparents should do the same with their stepchildren.