Hey just found this site and seems like there are some spirited, but insightful people hanging around it so maybe someone here has similar experience to my problem and can help. First a disclaimer: I'm a guy and I must admit before asking for advice that I have trouble following through on the laundry after I've made promises for two days.

I am remarried with three kids, 5 year old hers (Madeline), 3 year old mine (Jackson), and 1 year old ours. Jackson's mother is remarried and has no other kids in her home other than Jackson, whom we share 50/50. I have been able to develop a great bond with Madeline, who we have 90% of the time. Jennifer had a great bond with Jackson early on as she met him when he was 9 months old. I've noticed over the last year it has become less and less instead of more and more, and recently Jackson has begun acting very hateful toward her. He no longer will allow Jennifer to give him a kiss, and swats at her as she tries to get him dressed. This disturbing because it hurts Jenn's feelings and causes her to pull back from affection she wants to give him, thus making the problem worse. I'm not sure if his hate is coming from his mother (standard issues between the current and the ex apply here), but either way I have no control over that and I don't think its worth an accusation toward her. I don't know if there is something Jenn should be doing differently or if this is typical from a 3 year old. I keep a fun but disciplined household and disrespect is not tolerated. I discipline when I see this happening but I'm not always around to see it and Jenn now fears that if she disciplines him he will hate her more.

I've asked Jenn to stay the course and in time Jackson will see that she is worth loving. I encourage him to give her a kiss when we are leaving, or before bed, etc. Not sure when he refuses to kiss her if it is appropriate that make him. I love'em all and hate seeing this happen.

Any insight or suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks