Dealing With Divorce Over The Holidays
The holidays are upon us and while they can be exciting for many of us—especially the kids—they can be stressful for the adults, especially for divorced parents. Many parents are spending this time agonizing on how to make the holidays perfect for the children now that the family is no longer today.
Indeed, a divorce can really throw a wrench in holiday plans. You can’t really keep celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas like you did in the past without there being some tension, anger, or resentment, so how do you proceed?
The holidays can bring about strong emotions. How do you get through them and make the holidays special for your kids after divorce? Here’s how to make it through the holidays with ease.
Come Up With a Plan
Know what to expect during the holidays, as this will help with planning. Discuss the situation with the other parent. Find out who will have the kids on certain days. Coordinating things now will prevent misunderstandings later.
Put the Kids First
The best interests of the children should come first, and this means allowing them to see both parents over the holidays. Despite your feelings toward your ex, you should not be punishing your kids by not allowing them to see their parents. Be an adult and work toward getting over your negative feelings. Seek counseling if necessary.
Keep Conflict Away From the Kids
If you’re having issues with the other parent, try to be as respectful and amicable as possible. Do not, however, bring your child into the conflict. You want to make the holidays as stress-free for them as possible.
Keep Some Traditions, Create New Ones
You don’t have to start all over after a divorce. You can keep some favorite traditions, like watching TV and drinking hot cocoa on Christmas morning. You may not be able to all meet as a family like you did in the past, but this gives you an opportunity to start fun new traditions. If you never liked turkey, for example, why not eat something different on Thanksgiving? Make sure to allow the children to contribute their ideas as well. After all, the holidays should be a family affair.
Prepare Your Children
Kids thrive on routine and predictability, so be sure to let them know what to expect this holiday season. Where will they go and what will they do? Try to give them as much detail as possible, but most importantly, encourage them to have fun. Remember, it’s not a competition!
Seek Help for Your Divorce
Stress becomes amplified during the holidays as divorced families try to figure out what to do. Who gets the kids? Do the parents stick with old traditions or start new ones?
The Dade City & Zephyrhills divorce attorneys at Madonna Law Group can guide you through the divorce process and help you with child custody issues during the holidays. Schedule a consultation with our office today. Call (800) 557-0411 or fill out the online form.
Source:
health.usnews.com/wellness/for-parents/articles/2018-11-30/dealing-with-divorce-during-the-holidays
