Celebrating a Stepfather on Father's Day

This June, plans to celebrate Father's Day may include celebrating a number of notable men in people's lives. Those men can include stepfathers, many of whom step in after a divorce or the death of a parent and play a strong role in their stepchild's life.

One million American children experience divorce every year. Roughly 65 percent of marriages today don't go beyond 15 years of marriage. Of the marriages that end in divorce, statistics indicate that women often gain custody of the children and remarry within 5 years. A stepdad may become a part of a child's life and blended families are often the norm.

Whether a man is the biological parent or a stepdad, he is often an important figure in a child's life. Come Father's Day, children may want to show their appreciation to the dad in their lives whether or not they share the same DNA or last name. Here are some things to keep in mind.

* If both your biological dad and a stepfather are living and in your life, you will have to set aside time for both of them. Perhaps the morning can be devoted to one and the evening to another. Or maybe spend time with your stepfather on the Saturday prior to Father's Day and spend time with Dad on Sunday.

* Create a collage of images featuring you and your stepfather. Present it to him on Father's Day and explain how he has helped shape the person you've become.

* There are cards made specifically for stepfathers. If one doesn't express the right sentiments, create a handwritten card that offers the right words.

* Children who have not had the coziest relationship with their stepfather should attempt to use this Father's Day as an opportunity to revisit that relationship and spend time together. It could mark a meaningful turning point for both people in the relationship.

* If your biological father and stepfather are friendly to one another, think about going out with both of them at the same time. Plan a special outing to a sporting event or something they both find appealing.

* Stepfathers sometimes have to play second fiddle and may not find it easy to blend into an existing family. On Father's Day, your stepfather should be able to call the shots and have his needs and interests met.

A father is a father to children whether he shares their genes or not. Father's Day is often a time to celebrate all the unsung heroes in a child's life.