Despite that song about the holidays being “the most wonderful time of the year”, November and December can be stressful, overwhelming, and sometimes even downright unpleasant for anyone, divorced or not. For people who are divorced or who are divorcing, this season can be incredibly challenging. Fortunately, as more and more people who are divorced learn from experience and share their stories about what works well during the holiday season and what does not work, those who are new to life during or after divorce can benefit tremendously. Here are a few things that might help you to navigate this holiday season successfully.
One common mistake that newly divorced or divorcing parents make during the holidays is assuming that since a parenting schedule has been agreed to in advance, everything will go smoothly and as planned. Unfortunately, this is not often the case. Weather can interfere with travel plans and school schedules, you or your children’s other parent may receive last-minute invitations to gatherings with family and or community events, or any one of a number of other things could happen which could threaten to derail even the most carefully planned out parenting schedule. Fortunately, there is a way from preventing at least some of these occurrences from turning into conflicts. Clear and honest communication as far in advance as possible regarding proposed changes to the parenting schedule can go a long way towards keeping both of you in a problem solving state of mind where you can work together to find solutions that will work for the whole family.
Gift-giving is another area in which divorced and divorcing parents often encounter trouble during the holidays. As is the case with parenting time, planning ahead for gift giving and communicating openly and honestly with your children’s other parent can help you avoid many conflicts. Most children enjoy creating holiday wish lists, and this can be very helpful for parents. Once your children have made their lists, have a conversation with your children’s other parent about which of you will give which gifts to which children. That same conversation is a good time for both of you to address any concerns over the appropriateness or feasibility of any of the gifts on the children’s lists. Working together on gift giving helps both of you to avoid unpleasant surprises, such as the children receiving duplicate gifts or gifts that would create conflict or a temptation for either parent to speak unkindly of the other in front of the kids. Also, children enjoy giving gifts to their parents. Since many children do not have the financial resources or the ability to go out and shop for a gift for their other parent on their own, you can show your support for your child and for their relationship with their other parent by helping them make or purchase something special for their other parent.
Texas Family Law Attorney Alex Tyra – The Legal Support You Need for Your Texas Divorce
The holiday season presents a number of challenges for divorced and divorcing parents. Fortunately, many conflicts can be avoided with clear communication and advance planning. However, despite your best efforts, things may happen during the holiday season that may cause you to require legal assistance. If you need help with your Texas divorce now or at any time of the year, Texas Divorce Attorney Alex Tyra may be able to help you. Call our office today, at (903) 753-7499.
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