Co-Parenting During the Holidays

Table of Contents:  

Communicate Clearly and Be Flexible While Co-Parenting 

Create a Detailed Co-Parenting Plan 

Prioritize the Children’s Needs as a Co-Parent 

Coordinate Gifts with your Co-Parent 

Focus on the Joy of the Season While Co-Parenting 

Need Support During Your Divorce This Holiday Season? 

The holiday season often ushers in a flurry of festivities, traditions, and togetherness. However, for families navigating the waters of co-parenting, this time of year can present unique challenges. At Brown Dutton & Crider, we acknowledge the importance of fostering a supportive and harmonious holiday season through co-parenting to ensure that children experience the joy of the season without any added stress or conflict. 

Co-parenting during the holidays doesn’t have to be difficult. In this blog, we will provide some helpful tips and insights to help make co-parenting during the holiday season more enjoyable for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned co-parent or new to this process. 

1. Communicate Clearly and Be Flexible While Co-Parenting

Communication and flexibility are key when it comes to joint custody during the holiday season. Start by openly discussing and planning your holiday schedule with your co-parent well in advance. Keep the lines of communication open and respectful. Be flexible and considerate of each other’s traditions, plans, and desires to create a balanced schedule that accommodates both parents and most importantly, the children. 

2. Create a Detailed Co-Parenting Plan

Develop a detailed parenting plan that outlines where the children will be during specific holidays including Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year’s, and any other celebrations that are significant to your family. Make the plan as clear as possible by including pick-up and drop-off times, locations, and any other relevant details. This also lessens confusion for your children by providing a set of expectations for what the holiday season will look like to make sure everyone is happy. 

Watch to learn more about what can happen if a holiday is left off your parenting plan ⬇️ 

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What happens if a holiday is left out of your parenting plan? #parentingtime #parentingplans #holidayparenting #legaltiktok #lawyersoftiktok

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3. Prioritize Your Children’s Needs as a Co-Parent 

You and your co-parent may disagree on many things, but one thing you both should agree on is the well-being of your children. Remember that holidays are about creating special moments, especially for your kids. Maintain a sense of stability and consistency, be mindful of your children’s emotions, and listen to their needs.  

4. Coordinate Gifts with Your Co-Parent 

Avoid gifting mishaps and misunderstandings by discussing gifting with your co-parent this season. Establish a general understanding of the types of gifts, budgets, and special requests of your children. Consider shared wish lists to avoid duplicate gifts and going in together to get a big-ticket item for your children. This will take some weight off both parents and allow more time to enjoy holiday festivities. 

5. Focus on the Joy of the Season While Co-Parenting

Embrace the holiday spirit and encourage your children to enjoy the traditions and activities they love this time of year, no matter which parent is present. You can also consider creating new traditions that fit into your co-parenting schedule. This is a unique way for each parent to create new, cherished memories for years to come while still splitting time. It is also important for you to take care of yourself this season so you can be present for your kids. Check out our blog from last month about how to navigate divorce during the holidays. 

This holiday season, embrace the spirit of togetherness with these principles in mind, and remember that successful co-parenting during the holidays is one of the best gifts you can give to your children. 

Need Support During Your Divorce This Holiday Season? 

At Brown Dutton & Crider, our attorneys understand that the divorce process can be confusing and difficult to navigate alone, especially during the holidays. Our experienced family law attorneys are here to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and reach the best possible solution for your family’s unique situation.  

If you have questions about your situation or are interested in scheduling a consultation, contact the attorneys at Brown Dutton & Crider today. Call (678) 730-2578 or get in touch with us here.