Two Weber State University alumni have launched a brand called For The Kids Who Stay to provide resources for blended families. The initiative was inspired by the personal experiences of Morgan Lindahl and Amanda Gonzales, who both navigate life in blended families.
Lindahl, who has three biological children and two stepchildren, created the brand after noticing a lack of resources for children facing the emotional challenges of transitioning between homes. Her first product is a book titled How Many More Days?! which uses characters based on the children's favorite stuffed animals to teach strategies for managing difficult feelings during sibling transitions.
To expand their offerings, Lindahl and Gonzales also developed a Parent Kit. This kit includes a feelings wheel and a countdown calendar to help families navigate the emotions and timing associated with transition days.
The project received support from Weber State University faculty. Professor Leigh Shaw, who previously mentored Gonzales during her undergraduate research in child and family studies and psychology, read the first draft of the book. Communication professor Brent Warnock also provided mentorship to Lindahl, offering encouragement that helped her pursue authorship.
Gonzales is a licensed clinical mental health therapist who earned her bachelor's degree in early childhood from Weber State University. She is the biological mother of four children, including a child born to a couple where one or both partners have children from a previous relationship, a dynamic she refers to as an ours baby.
Lindahl and Gonzales will host a Blended Family Night in partnership with Youth Impact on Nov. 14 from 5–7 p.m. at 2305 Grant Ave. in Ogden. The free event is open to anyone raising children in two homes or those new to the blended family dynamic and will feature activities to strengthen connection and a complimentary dinner. The first 20 families in attendance will receive a book, and registration is available on the For The Kids Who Stay event page.
