If you are going through a divorce, how you are going to handle the holidays can be a challenge. One of the most important things to remember is to focus on what truly matters: the well-being of your children. Here are four tips for managing the holidays with grace and ensuring a smooth transition for your family:
Honor Old Traditions, Create New Ones
One of the most difficult aspects of the holidays during a divorce is the shift in traditions. As a couple, you have probably shared holiday routines that are now disrupted. It is important to recognize that while you may want to create new traditions for yourself and your children, maintaining some familiar ones could also be comforting to them. Ask your children what traditions they value and, if possible, honor those. At the same time, introduce new rituals that represent the start of a new chapter, while keeping their happiness at the forefront.
Consider Sharing the Holidays, If Appropriate
If you are going through a non-adversarial divorce, like Mediation or Collaborative Divorce, spending some of the holidays together might be an option. However, this only works if you both feel comfortable. Any lingering tension could negatively affect the atmosphere and the children. You should also assess how your children feel about sharing the holidays. Some children may enjoy the experience, while others may prefer celebrating separately with each parent, potentially enjoying the benefits of “two Christmases.”
Take Care of Yourself
In going through your divorce during the holidays, you may feel a sense of loneliness when your children spend time with the other parent. Be proactive and plan ahead. Reach out to family or friends, join holiday gatherings, or use this time to indulge in activities you love but rarely have time for. Taking care of yourself is an important part of maintaining emotional well-being during this transitional period. You should also remember that your children are happy, spending time with both parents. Knowing that your children are happy should bring some peace.
Communication is Key
Lastly, communication with your co-parent is critical. Plan the holiday schedule in advance and keep the lines of communication open, to ensure that decisions about the children are made collaboratively. This reduces stress and ensures that the holidays run smoothly, allowing your children to benefit from a peaceful environment.
Ultimately, putting your children first and maintaining a cooperative approach with your ex-partner is the key to a successful holiday season during a divorce.
Anthony J. Diaz is an experienced family law attorney focusing on Mediation and Collaborative Divorce. His offices are located at 2431 Aloma Ave Suite #124,
Winter Park, FL 32792 and 3720 Suntree Blvd., Suite 103G, Melbourne, FL. 32940.
You may contact Anthony Diaz by calling 407-212-7807 or by email An*****@************aw.com or visit www.AnthonyDiazLaw.com.
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