Co-Parenting During the Holidays

The winter holidays are known as the most wonderful time of the year. Unfortunately, they’re also some of the most stressful. From office parties to school pageants and buying gifts, the holidays can be incredibly hectic.

But if this is your first holiday as a divorced parent, you may have other things on your mind, like how to make the season fun and enjoyable for your children.

Healthy Holiday Co-Parenting

Make Arrangements Well Before the Holidays

If you wait until mid-November to discuss your holiday plans or to try modifying your custody agreement, you won’t have enough time to come to an agreement that benefits you, your ex, and your children. Instead, discuss what you would like to do for the holidays well before fall arrives.

Bring the Family Together if You’re All on Good Terms

If you and your ex still get along well, consider having all of the winter holidays together at one house. This will help your children see that even though you’re divorced, not everything has to change.

However, you should never try to pretend to get along for the sake of your children. If you and your spouse had a contentious divorce and you’re not ready to spend the holidays together, do not feel like you have to.

Talk Openly With Your Children

If your children are older, they’ll understand that the holidays might look a little different this year. Before Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Hanukkah arrives, talk to your kids about where they’ll be celebrating and what they can expect this year. If kids feel like they’re being kept in the dark, it can cause more stress.

Discuss Gifts and Activities with Your Former Spouse

Do not use the holidays as a way to buy your children’s affection or try to outshine their other parent. Instead, talk to your ex about what presents you’re planning to get and what activities you’ll be doing. If you’re going to be giving an important gift, consider making it from both parents.

At Blood Law, PLLC, we understand how stressful divorce can be and strive to obtain the best possible outcome for each client we represent. To schedule a consultation with an attorney in Charlotte, call (704) 286-0570 or contact us online.