Strategies for Co-Parenting During the Holidays

Holiday chaos is what causes difficulties for co-parents. Just like preparing for a new school year, organizing your calendar for the holidays can be less stressful if you plan beforehand. A gig harbor family law attorney can help you with any legal dispute that you might face.

Effective communication.

Create channels of communication that you, as well as your co-parent, can use. This could entail face-to-face conversation, a phone call, joining a Zoom meeting, texting or sharing emails – whatever reduces tension and promotes fruitful dialogue. Should your co-parent have a problem, how would you wish to be notified? Do you choose a phone call over a text message if they will be late, miss a flight, or take one of your children to the doctor?

Early preparation is vital.

The division of major holidays is frequently outlined in parenting plans, but they might not cover all of the occasions that are significant to you. Make preparations for vacations and other non-school dates important to your family before the new school year begins by reviewing your calendars. A logistical plan should be made because the location and time of the kid exchange may change when they are not in school.

Communicate your Preferences.

Both parents should convey what is essential to them during the holiday season. Ranking these preferences or giving them “importance points” can be useful. Instead of talking about them one at a time, try compiling them into a single list so that both of you can see the whole picture.

Be prepared to bargain.

Understand your objectives and the areas where you are prepared to make concessions. Be receptive to innovative solutions. Perhaps you both desire to host a big Thanksgiving party for your kids. Would hosting it by one parent over the weekend be conceivable?

Create new customs.

Festivities are significantly more flexible than religious festivals, typically based on set dates and worship activities. You might establish new family customs as parents. Instead of going back and forth on Christmas Day, perhaps one home will appreciate unwrapping gifts on Christmas Eve or Boxing Day in alternating years. Most children will not refuse 2 days of presents!

Accept technology.

On special days when they are not together, encourage your children to skype with the other parent. They may feel more connected as a result, which will make everyone happier.

Plan your gifts.

Talking to your co-parent regarding presents for the children or even working together to buy them might be beneficial. Additionally, it is wonderful to assist your children in finding a present for the other parent.