The holiday season is often filled with excitement, traditions, and togetherness — but for co-parents, it can also bring a unique set of challenges. Balancing schedules, travel, and family expectations while trying to make the holidays special for your children can feel like a juggling act.
At Wolf & Shore Law Group, we know how emotional these decisions can be. You want to create wonderful memories for your children, and that starts with one key ingredient: communication.
🤝 Start with the Spirit of Cooperation
The best holiday schedules are built with flexibility and empathy. Remember that your children love both of you and deserve to spend meaningful time with each parent. When co-parents can work together respectfully, kids get the gift of stability and love from both sides.
Here are a few tips for success:
- Plan early. Don’t wait until December to start talking about holiday time. Discuss your plans as soon as possible so everyone can make arrangements calmly.
- Focus on the kids’ experience. Instead of thinking about what’s “fair,” focus on what’s best for the children. They’ll remember the joy of seeing both parents celebrate them (not who had Christmas morning or New Year’s Eve).
- Alternate or split holidays. Many co-parents find success by alternating holidays each year or splitting the day (for example, Christmas Eve with one parent and Christmas Day with the other).
- Be flexible. Sometimes, travel, weather, or extended family events mean you’ll need to adjust. Keep your tone cooperative, and your focus on creating positive experiences for your kids.
🎁 Create New Traditions
The holidays may look different post-divorce, but that doesn’t mean they can’t still be magical. This is a great opportunity to create new traditions with your children. Whether it’s decorating cookies on Christmas Eve, hosting a “Friendsgiving,” or celebrating with a movie marathon, the most important thing is that you focus on your kids, and the experience that you are able to give them.
Kids thrive when they see their parents working together and embracing the season with kindness and consistency.
💬 When You Need Help, We’re Here
Even with the best intentions, holiday scheduling can become stressful — especially if there’s been a communication breakdown or a court order that needs modification. The attorneys at Wolf & Shore Law Group can help you navigate your parenting plan or seek modifications if needed. Our experienced attorneys will walk you through the process with compassion, discretion, and realistic advice to make sure you understand all the pros and cons of your options. Ever Argue with a Woman? Contact us at 203.745.3151 or info@wolfandshorelaw.com.
