Resolution Through Negotiation

Family law and child custody representation in Minnesota's Twin Cities.

Co-parenting and the holidays

On Behalf of | Nov 30, 2016 | Child Custody & Visitation |

Spouses who have children and are in the midst of a divorce may face certain challenges during the holiday season in Minnesota. Now that there are two separate households, the kids may feel confused and unsettled about the situation. Parents should work together so they can successfully co-parent their children. This will make it easier for them to enjoy the holidays just as much as they were able to before the separation.

Plan things out

Most disagreements and conflicts are avoidable if both parents take the time to plan things out in advance. According to WebMD, having plans can help the children to feel less anxious about their situation because they know in advance who they will be spending time with and where for the holidays.

Start a new tradition

Divorce often signals an end to certain holiday family traditions. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the divorce, parents may need to modify or create new holiday activities that they can work with their kids to create new memories and traditions, states Coparently. Ex-spouses should talk things over with each other and their children so they can both come up with positive ideas that are beneficial to everyone.

Avoid conflicts

Parents may feel inclined to disagree with each other over certain arrangements and situations regarding their children during the holidays. However, it is important for them to be on their best behavior towards each other. Bickering and arguing can lead to tension and more stress for the kids and create a hostile environment that easily becomes associated with the holidays.

Divorced parents who take the time to make co-parenting plans with their children’s best interests in mind are able to make the transition between households a seamless one during the holidays.