The holidays can be a stressful time for any family. Parents who are divorced may face unique and different challenges when planning and trying to enjoy the holidays.
It may be difficult to figure out how to share custody of the children during the holidays. Divorced parents should make an effort to communicate with each other and be considerate of each other’s plans for the holidays.
While some divorced families may be able to celebrate the holidays together, many divorced families end up sharing the holidays with their children. Parents should consider the following tips for making the holidays fun and memorable instead of stressful.
With children, it is important that both parents communicate with each other about their holiday plans and schedule. Determine who will have the kids on which holiday or if parents are sharing the holiday, create a plan that will allow for the easiest transition between the two holiday celebrations.
Parents should try and set their holidays plans as early as possible. This will allow both parents to address what needs to be done to make the holidays less stressful. It will also give parents more time to address what to do if an unplanned situation comes up that may change holiday plans.
While it may be the tradition to celebrate the holiday on the actual day, but many divorced parents decide it is easier to celebrate on a different day. This allows both parents to celebrate with their family the entire day or weekend instead of splitting up the day.
The holidays are supposed to be a time to celebrate with your family and enjoy each other’s company. Divorced parents may face different challenges during the holidays but communicating and planning will help the entire family enjoy the holidays this year.
Source: Huffington Post, “Tips For Surviving The Holidays,” Ann Blumenthal Jacobs, Dec. 12, 2012
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