Bonding with Stepchildren Through a High Conflict Divorce
Today I am joined by Keith and Sheila Hittner from Our Healthy Homes. Keith talks with us about his experience with divorce and raising his five children with Sheila. He talks about the struggles that he went through and how he supported his children through difficult circumstances. Sheila discusses how she bonded with Keith’s children and what got her started on her Healthy Homes program. Together they talk about how their experiences have played into their realty work, supporting different situations for clients, and the importance of bonding when a new adult comes into a family post-divorce. Tune in today to learn the four pillars of a healthy home and tips for introducing a new relationship post-divorce.
In this episode:
[1:15] Introduction to Keith and Sheila Hittner and their background. [5:32] Keith and Sheila share their lessons with bonding. [9:13] Keith talks about his experience with divorce, which included his five children. [13:05] As Keith looks back, does he think amicable mediation would have been an option for his divorce? [15:38] What was it like to send Keith’s children to their moms where the environment wasn’t good? [17:39] How old were Keith’s children when he and his ex-spouse went through their divorce? [18:30] What was it like for Sheila to bond with Keith’s children? [22:38] How does their experience with divorce play into their current reality work? [24:04] What are the four pillars of a healthy house? [25:17] What are the health items that Sheila is promoting? [28:37] What tools does Sheila use for her Healthy Homes program?
Key Takeaways:
When kids are involved, you are together whether you are married or not because there will always be circumstances where you need to participate together, such as birthday parties, holidays, weddings, etc. Some children will experience a sense of betrayal and guilt towards their biological parents when they bond with a step-parent. A healthy home means having the right real estate, ecosystem, and physical and mental health. If those four pillars aren’t all spoken to and worked on, then the roof is going to fall.
Guest Bio:
We believe that owning a home allows you and your family to put down roots and become established in the community. We believe that owning a home makes your family feel safe and more connected. We believe that families that own homes are more successful because they feel the pride of ownership and are modeling the American dream. We believe this dream is for everyone, no matter what the background, family structure, or anything else. These beliefs are central to everything that we do. Whether it is helping you buy or sell a home or helping you discover lifestyle choices that will make your home healthier. We believe that your home is central to your family life, and we want to be a resource to you, now and in the future.
Quotes:
“I just want everyone to know that there is an option that you don't have to fight it out in court.” - Lesa Koski
“When you don’t have your health, what do you have?” - Sheila Hittner
Resources:
Keith and Sheila Hittner Links
Keith and Sheila Hittner Website
Phone: (651) 775-9194
The Onward app was made for divorced parents to help track, share and split their children's expenses. Download The Onward App today for iOS or Android!
Mentioned in this episode:
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