As you prepare for divorce and move through the process, it’s imperative to take steps to protect your children as well as yourself. This means something different to everyone but should definitely include a focus on parenting time.
Taking this to the next level, parenting time during the holidays has the potential to be a sticking point. Without a plan in place, it’s easy to find yourself heading down the wrong path. As a result, it can result in arguments with your ex-spouse when you should be focusing on spending quality time with your children.
On the plus side, you can avoid many issues by addressing them in your parenting plan. This allows you to get a holiday plan in place during your divorce, all with the idea that it will guide you in the future.
Here are some things to think about when working holiday schedules into your parenting plan:
- Don’t be greedy: As long as the court allows it, it’s healthy for your children to spend time with both of their parents during the holidays. So, don’t be greedy by fighting for every last minute on every last holiday. For example, maybe you spend Christmas morning with your children before they visit with your ex-spouse.
- Rotate years: This is a simple solution that often works in the best interests of both parents. You get your children one year, and your ex the next. For instance, your children spend even-numbered years with you on Thanksgiving and odd-numbered years with your ex.
- Do what’s in the best interest of your children: As a parent, you want to spend as much time as you can with your children. But at the same time, this may not be feasible post-divorce. You should always do what’s in the best interest of your children, which typically means ensuring that they spend time with both parents.
With these tips guiding you, it’s easier to create and follow a parenting plan that’s designed to ease the tension during the holiday season.
Should your ex-spouse violate your parenting plan, talk to them about your concerns while simultaneously learning more about your legal rights.