A Definition of Blended Families

The ideal "family" has changed so much in the last few decades that the term "blended families" encorporates more scenarios then you might think.

The Merriam Webster dictionary states that a blended family is: “a family that includes children of a previous marriage of one spouse or both”. I propose for the sake of our site that this dictionary definition may be a bit outdated and narrow in scope. Here at Suite 101 we will also include families that are blended by other means. That is, anyone that falls outside of the “traditional” family of two married heterosexual parents of the opposite sex whose children are born to them through “normal” means.

For example, children who are being raised by their grandparents are a “blend” of two different nuclear families. Families that are built through a combination of biology and adoption are a blend. Sometimes there are striking ethnic differences that blend to make one family. Some blended families are small, others are very large. Each has unique needs and circumstances.

It is my goal to include everyone that is in, from, or about to create, a “blended family” in articles, blogs and discussions. I want this site, our site, to be a resource of information, support and encouragement to anyone who may benefit from it. Join me in the discussion forum to introduce yourself, keep up to date with the latest article and feel free to contact me with any questions, comments or article suggestions you may have.