Dear Dad: As I go through the same issues as you do with a nuclear family, I can't help but wonder why you haven't said something to her son? All children, regardless of age, have to be treated fairly and equally. If it is required that the house stay spotless, then her son needs to do the same, no questions asked. You should talk to her, tell her your concerns, that you don't want to fight, but you want it fair between ALL the kids. If not, then eventually it's going to seem as if you are not treating your kids fairly and letting hers get off scott free. This is a JOINT venture, not just her way or the highway, and the sooner she knows that, the better. If worse comes to worse, show her your post on here, and see what she says...my BF and I speak alot about co-parenting since that is one of THE biggest issues in divorce and parenting. If you don't talk about it, the other person doesn't know it. Open and honest. Best policy! Good luck to you! View Thread