Having less time with your child is one of the most difficult aspects of divorce and split custody. During holiday seasons, that separation can be even more difficult for everyone.
Making this time of year happy and special for your child should be the most important thing to remember. Your stress may make that difficult, at times, but here are three helpful tips for managing holidays and child custody.
1. Follow the existing order
It is very important that, if there is an existing visitation or custody agreement in place, that you follow that order, unless both you and the other parent agree to a change or there are extreme extenuating circumstances. Making changes unilaterally can create problems that will inevitably impact your child.
2. Be flexible
Do not forget that you can spend your time with your child however you want. You do not have to wait for a specific date to make special memories together or celebrate in a certain way. Recreate beloved family traditions on a different day if that is when you have custody of your child.
3. Keep your child in mind
You always have your child’s best interests at heart so do not lose sight of that among all the stress of the holiday season. The time he or she spends with both parents is valuable to your child. Focus on what you can control, which is the time they spend with you.
Make the time that you have together special and filled with fun and happiness.