Holiday Tips for Divorced Parents

Posted By Menduni Martindill, PLLC || 3-Dec-2014

The holiday season can be hard on families affected by divorce. It is stressful for parents that are attempting to determine how they will create the holidays for children, and children who are suddenly facing this time without the support of both parents for the first time. As a parent, it is important that you do what you can to make the holidays as smooth as possible for all involved.

Keep the Holidays Stress-Free For the Kids

Parenting between two households can create holiday stress with little effort. Spending time away from the kids during this seasons will not be easy, but it must be managed by both parents. Following some tips from those who have seen it all before can help ease the time ahead.

Here are some tips for enjoying your new holiday season:

• The needs of the children should guide holiday planning, not what you determine to be fair
• Let kids know what they can expect from the holiday and what role you will play
• Find out what the children would like to do and how you can help make this happen
• Deliver children to your former spouse in good spirits, well-rested, and prepared
• Speak with your former spouse about gift-giving expectations and limitations
• Share important dates with your ex, such as holiday plays the kids may be involved in
• Keep the holidays tension free by acting according to what you are comfortable with
• Find time to spend small moments with the children that are just as meaningful
• Make new traditions that you can keep repeating for years in the future

Remember that the holiday season is about being thankful for all that you have. This is not a time to hold grudges against a spouse or use time with the children in order to get even. The tips highlighted by our firm can help you and your family have the best possible holiday season.