Question: I have a 6 year old boy that has lived with myself & his half sister his whole life. His stepfather has also been in the picture since he was about six month old. His bio dad & I were never married, nor ever lived together. His biological father has had every other weekend since he turned 3. He is now seeking 50/50 custody. It has be suggested that my son now spend 4 straight days every other weekend with his bio dad & half of the summer there. Three key points are his father's job wouldn't allow him to care for him, as I can. It would also separate him more so from his sibling. Most importantly, my son doesn't want anymore overnight visits. He is very verbal & emotional about this topic. I'm not opposed to trying to work some extra time in. However, I feel that it should be scheduled in a manner that is best for our child. Is it psychologically appropriate to have a six year old boy uprooted from the life he knows & flourishes in? In addition, my son has been told if he doesn't kiss his stepmother on the mouth when she goes to kiss him that he will be in trouble. What are your thoughts on the kissing, as well? I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Thanks for your time!

Dr. XXXXXXX Schubert,

I appreciate all of the feedback. Do you have any thoughts about my son's increase in time for his father. With considering his age, what he wants, & where he has lived? We have no child psychologists here. I am just trying to educate myself the best that I can about this unfortunate situation. So, I can help Tayden but also provide more time for his father. I have to be a part of helping change our parenting plan.

I do completely understand all that you have shared. Yet, is there anyway you might be able to share some things on how my son might be effected by additional overnight stays?
Is it ok for a stepparent to kiss a boy of six on the mouth? Just curious if this action is appropriate? I'm not wanting to come across as being a mean bio mom! I did ask his father if he could have her stop. I was told that Tayden (son) wanted it & she would do what she wanted. Tayden had told me that he didn't want her kissing him anymore there. I just suggested that when someone tries to kiss you & you don't want it just turn your head so the kiss lands upon your cheek.

Apparently, Tayden started doing this. That's when his bio dad pulled him aside and told him that it was hurting his stepmother's feelings. So, he could no longer turn his head to his cheek. I want to handle this situation right. Just not sure what to do. Nor, what is even appropriate. I myself am also a stepmother. I have never kissed my stepdaughter on her mouth. I don't feel it's my place. I have known her a lot longer, as well. Anyway, I just want to better me with all this.

Thanks again!!!!

Thank you!