Although my ex-husband and I have been divorced for over 9 years, I still include my step-daughter in family activities. I remember the movie Clueless having a line that went something like this, “You divorce husbands and wives, but you don’t divorce children.” (You divorce wives, not children.)

I think that is so true. My step-daughter is still a sister to my two daughters, and I think it is essential that they spend quality time together.

I myself have a full blooded sister, several half sisters, and several step sisters. They are all important to me. I couldn’t imagine not having a relationship with them.

This past week, my step-daughter came over to help us decorate our Christmas tree. She is 15 now, and I have never put the tree up without her. We listened to the Alvin and the Chipmunks Christmas CD like we always do, and the kids had a great time. My sister and her little one also came over, and we had homemade chicken quesadillas for dinner.

I have taken my step-daughter on overnight family trips to the Poconos, Camden Aquarium, and the Franklin Institute. We have spent time getting our nails done, going miniature golfing on the boardwalk in Ocean City, and watching movies at the movie theater. I couldn’t image missing out on all of this just because my marriage didn’t work out.

Children are a joy, no matter where they come from. I encourage all step-parents to take the time to develop a lasting relationship with their step-children, and to make sure they are not excluding the children from any family activities.