The third rule is that she should contribute something unique to our family life. Whether it’s cooking a meal once a week, introducing a new family game, or sharing something she loves, I wanted her to feel like she was more than just a guest—that she was adding something meaningful to our home.
She cried, saying the rules felt like tests instead of a warm welcome. She already feels like an outsider, and these conditions made her feel like she has to earn her place in the family, not just be accepted.
I tried to explain that the rules were meant to help her feel involved and connected, not to create barriers.Now, I’m conflicted. Was I being unreasonable, or was I just trying to keep our home running smoothly for everyone?
My husband is upset, saying I should have let her move in without any conditions. My kids are stuck in the middle, unsure how to react. And my stepdaughter won’t even talk to me.I need advice. How can I fix this without making things worse?