National Stepfamily Day: Why Blended Families Deserve More Support

Every September 16th, the U.S. celebrates National Stepfamily Day—a day to honor and recognize the unique beauty and challenges of blended families.

As Ron Deal, author of Preparing to Blend, says:

There’s no such thing as an “average” family anymore. Families come in every shape and size—and more than ever, that means blended families. But while stepfamilies are increasingly common, the journey isn’t always easy.

The Truth About Stepfamilies (And Why It Matters)

Not all the stats are heartwarming:

• 💔 60–70% of stepfamilies end in divorce

• 🔄 Serial transitions in and out of marriage, divorce, and cohabitation are now typical for more than half of U.S. families.

• 😔 41% of children of divorce report struggling—feeling worried, underachieving, and often angry.

• 🪖 Military stepfamilies in particular report high levels of unhappiness.

• 📉 75% of stepparents say they don’t have enough resources to succeed.

These numbers tell a tough story. But they also shine a light on the massive opportunity we have to change things.

What If…

• What if more stepfamilies had practical tools to handle conflict without tearing each other apart?

• What if more stepparents had a roadmap for building bonds with their stepkids?

• What if families could find support, guidance, and encouragement before it was too late?

The truth is—we can change the story.

Why Support for Stepdads Exists

As a divorced stepdad, I’ve felt the weight of uncertainty, the sting of frustration, and the fear of asking myself, ‘What if this doesn’t work again?’ Those questions are real, and they can feel overwhelming.

But I’ve also discovered that stepfamily life doesn’t have to be defined by fear or failure. With the right support, practical tools, and encouragement, stepdads and stepmoms can create bonds that last and families that truly thrive. As Scripture reminds us,

That’s why I started Support for Stepdads—to give blended families the resources I wish I’d had. From communication strategies to faith-based encouragement, from real-life stories to expert insights, our mission is simple:

And here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it alone. Whether through your church, a therapist, a support group, or even just one encouraging friend, some people understand exactly what you’re going through and want to walk beside you.

Your Challenge This National Stepfamily Day

Today, I’m inviting you to do just one thing to build a stronger stepfamily community:

• 📖 Read an article about stepfamily life and share it with someone who needs it.

• ☕ Reach out to a stepparent you know—invite them for coffee, or just let them know you see them.

• 🗓️ Schedule your first family meeting—or start a new tradition with your stepkids.

• 💬 Join the conversation online. Share your story. Encourage someone else.

Because the truth is simple:

So let’s change that. Let’s make sure no stepfamily feels invisible, under-resourced, or alone.

💡 Remember: You are not alone. We see you. We support you. And together, we can rewrite the future of blended families.

Want to take your stepfamily journey to the next level? Discover the keys to a healthy stepfamily with Ron L. Deal’s The Smart Stepfamily. In it, leading stepfamily expert Ron L. Deal reveals seven fundamental steps to blended family success and offers practical, realistic solutions to the very challenges you’re facing. Don’t just hope your family thrives—equip yourself with the wisdom and tools to make it happen. Get your copy of The Smart Stepfamily today.

About the author

In 1995, Gerardo became a stepdad to two children, a boy and a girl, ages 10 and 14. In 2011, he started the website Support for Stepfathers to reverse the nearly 70% divorce rate for blended families in the United States. His website is to help and inspire stepfathers, aspiring stepfathers, and the women who love them worldwide. You can follow Support for Stepdads on Twitter and Facebook.