Developmentally Appropriate Parenting Series: Part XI

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Family Dynamics

Family dynamics are a part of a child’s environment and foundational to many later life outcomes. Understanding one’s family type and the relationships between relatives can help caregivers be aware of the impact on the child. Healthy family dynamics foster an environment that promotes growth and development, rather than hinder it, which can be the result of inappropriate dynamics.

Trying Together has published resources on topics including family structures, sibling relationships, parentification, LGBTQ+ families, blended families, and foster and adoptive families.

Featured Resources

Family Dynamics: A Guide For Families

Family Dynamics: A Family Guide provides some brief support to caregivers on how to promote healthy family dynamics in their relationships for the bettering of all family members, but especially, the child.

Understanding Family Dynamics

This article becomes foundational in that it provides a clear definition of family dynamics and explains why ensuring positive dynamics is critical for health and well-being. Learn more about putting resources into practice!

Types of Family Structures

There are six types of family structures that are widely recognized. Identifying structure can help dive deeper into one’s family dynamics. Learn more about the six types of family structures.

Navigating Sibling Relationships

Siblings are often in a very unique relationship with being so close to the child’s inner circle. Positive sibling relationships can be a very important component to a child’s daily dynamics. Learn more about this impact and how to handle sibling rivalry.

Parentification

Parentification is a process where caregiver responsibilities are put on a child, and with this, there comes many detrimental consequences to a child’s development. Learn more information on how to be aware of these behaviors.

LGBTQ+ Families

With greater acceptance, the number of LGBTQ+ families is in the millions in the United States. These families are very similar to heterosexual parent relationships, but many still have bias that create challenges for these families. Learn more.

Blended Families

Blended families, also called stepfamilies, are common, especially with rising divorce rates. This can be a challenging transition for a child, but there are many helpful suggestions for success in navigating the new dynamic.

Foster and Adoptive Families

In foster and adoptive families, the child is being taken in, rather than born into, the family. Challenges can arise from this family dynamic, but supports are available to help caregivers navigate this situation successfully.