From time to time, I jump on the radio talk about being a step-mum. It might not sound like a big deal, but over the years, I’ve learned to brace for a lot of criticism.

You see, I think when people hear the term step-parent it brings to mind a lot of unpalatable words. Words like divorce, affair, custody and living arrangements. Not to mention the nasty depictions of step-parents we are all familiar with. The “evil”, “ugly” and always female characters of the world’s most famous fairy tales.

Step-parenting is such a minefield, that journalist, mum, and step mum, Karalee Katsambanis, has filled an entire book on the topic.