The holidays can be a challenging time for newly divorced co-parents. With the right approach, you can navigate this season smoothly, especially when you can plan ahead with your co-parenting agreement before finalizing your divorce. This often gets overlooked in court-litigated divorces, but this is often worked out when you choose a collaborative divorce model.
In a collaborative divorce process, where the focus is on cooperation rather than court battles, you’ll find the process more peaceful, leading to better outcomes for everyone involved, including your children.
Here are some thoughts to keep in mind to help make the first year, especially the holidays, have a better outcome for all involved:
- Put your children first. It’s a very emotional time. Notice any stress or discomfort during the holidays and address their concerns with kindness and gentleness.
- Plan with your ex-spouse to create a schedule that works for both of you and is in the best interest of your children.
- Be willing to adjust the holiday plans as needed and encourage open communication with your co-parent to avoid unnecessary conflicts.
- Discuss traditions and prioritize what’s most meaningful for your family, ensuring continuity despite the changes.
- It’s perfectly okay to blend old and new traditions or find new ones to make the holiday special. Children want stability, and traditions can be very grounding for them.
A collaborative divorce model helps you and your spouse work ahead of time through different scenarios, like the holidays and can avoid awkward and confusing situations.
Collaborative divorce allows for a more pro-child approach where consideration and care are given to their needs and emotions.
A Better DivorceTM is an interdisciplinary group of professionals committed to non-court, non-confrontational solutions for family law matters.
We will provide you with access to qualified professionals who can help you develop strategies that will help your family navigate the holidays in a way that keeps your family unit together. Contact us today!
Note: This information is general in nature and should not be construed as legal/financial/tax/or mental health advice. You should work with your attorney, financial, mental health or tax professional to determine what will work best for your situation.