Instant Mom

Stephanie tells James that lying is acceptable if it makes someone’s day better, which leads him to tell a huge lie. When everyone is called to the principal’s office, the family must find a balance between honesty and shading the truth.

Stephanie’s determined to bond with the kids and uses her love of music to do it. But by forcing them to take up an instrument against their will, Stephanie learns a very public and embarrassing lesson in parenting.

Stephanie tries to intervene when Aaron is given a hard time at school, but she makes matters worse. Meanwhile, Gabby’s trying out for cheerleading and Maggie volunteers to coach her, but comes off more like a drill sergeant.

Gabby gets asked out by a boy and she wants to go, but Charlie doesn't want her to date until she’s 16. Maggie backs him up, but Gabby sneakily gleans advice from Stephanie on how to get around the rule.

Stephanie begins to feel old. Stephanie escorts Gabby to an audition for a rock band, and manages to get the gig for herself. James and Aaron try to bribe Maggie for money to buy a video game.

Stephanie attempts to get more involved by participating on the parents’ dance committee at James’ school only to find the other mothers mean and unwelcoming to the too pretty, too excited, binder-ready Stephanie.

Stephanie seeks parenting advice by starting an anonymous blog and receives helpful tips until she discovers that the “helpful” users are the kids living under her roof, who have an agenda of their own.

Stephanie surprises the family with a visit from her father at Christmas; Stephanie is surprised by Maggie's reaction to her father's visit.

Stephanie plans activities at home when the family gets snowed in on their vacation.

Stephanie leaves Gabby in charge when the babysitter cancels on the night of a big event where Charlie is the speaker.