What is the Best Way to Handle the Holidays With My Ex?

Holidays are meant to be a season of joy, reflection, and family but for divorced parents, they can also bring stress, uncertainty, and tension. When you are co-parenting after a divorce, especially in a family where schedules, travel, and traditions compete, a little planning and communication can go a long way toward keeping the holidays joyful and protecting your children’s happiness

What Are Ways I Can Ensure a Smooth Transition into The Holiday Season?

Review Your Custody Agreement Early!

Your Custody Agreement likely includes a holiday schedule that tells you how to handle the holidays. However, do not wait until the day before the holiday to review your agreement. Review the holiday schedule in early October to ease the stress of having to deal with it the night before.

Keep the conversations about children respectful!

Holidays with divorced parents can be challenging enough for children. This is a joyful time for your children, and these are memories that will last a lifetime. When speaking about the kids and their holiday schedule think about what is best for them, not best for you. Attempt to work together to make the transitions smooth and drama free.

Keep the conversation business like and about the children.

How Should I Go About Gift Giving on the Holidays?

Share a Gift Guide!

Having two holidays can end in children getting two of the same gifts. Coordinate with your co-parent on who is going to get the child what. Avoid gift competitions on who gives the better or more expensive gift and focus on giving your children a well-rounded holiday.

What If My Child Has School Events?

Be Present!

If you have young children involved in school plays or events around holiday time it is important to show up. Talk with your co-parent and make a plan for you both to attend in the least disruptive way. If both parents cannot attend peacefully, plan on who attends what event, so your child always has a parent present.