Q&A: Dating in parenthood: What's the best way to approach meeting my new girlfriend's kids?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about...   Why intentionality and authenticity are the most important tools when building new relationships with kids. How to manage nerves, regulate your own emotions, and follow the children's lead so the interaction feels natural and comfortable. Practical strategies for structuring the first meeting (think short, sweet, semi-structured, and supervised) to set everyone up for success. How to consider the larger family context, including co-parenting dynamics and whether a conversation with the children's dad could be helpful. Why keeping expectations realistic and aiming simply for "they'd like to see me again" can take the pressure off and allow genuine connection to grow over time.   Whether you're stepping into a blended family yourself, supporting a partner who is, or just curious about how kids adjust to new relationships, this episode offers insight, validation, and practical takeaways to make those first meetings a little less daunting—and a lot more positive!     REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES:   👉🏻 Interested in joining a weekly virtual support group for women navigating divorce? Led by an experienced therapist, this group offers a safe space to process emotions, gain support, and build strategies for moving forward. To learn more or join the waitlist, visit upshurbren.com/group-womensdivorce or schedule a free 30-minute consultation call to see if this group is the right fit for you.     ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE:   🎧 Listen to my podcast episode busting myths about divorce with Michelle Dempsey-Multack   🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about how to navigate divorce or separation while prioritizing secure attachment with Una Archer   🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about whether or not you want to choose to "nest" during separations     WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:   Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!