How To Make Time-Sharing Work During The Holidays

The holiday season is officially upon us. For many families, this time of year is one of joy and happiness. If you have recently gotten a divorce, though, the holidays may present some difficult challenges. You may feel sad that for the first time, you will not be spending the holidays together as a family. You may reminisce about traditions you will miss, all while facing the fact that you also have to navigate time-sharing issues. Below, our Brandon child custody lawyer outlines some tips that can make the holidays easier.

Create a Written Schedule

During your divorce, you likely drafted a time-sharing agreement with your spouse, or one was decided on by a family law judge. Even when this is the case, sometimes holidays may get overlooked or things may have changed since the original schedule was created. If you do not have a written plan that clearly outlines your time-sharing responsibilities, now is the time to draft one.

If you have to create or change a plan, there are certain things you should include. Make sure to include which parent will pick the children up and drop them off from school, who will drive them to school pageants and rehearsals, as well as arrangements for pick-up and drop-offs with the other parent.

Also make sure to include specific times, places, and events and do not deviate from the plan unless it is an emergency. This will only create more hostility during a time that is already stressful.

Keep Your Emotions Out of It

You will feel many emotions during the divorce process, and they may spill over into the holidays, as well. It is true that the holidays are a very emotional time, particularly if it is the first one you are not spending with your spouse. However, try to keep your emotions out of it, especially when spending time with your children. Children need a safe and stable environment at all times, and remaining calm will help your children have the best holiday possible.

Stay Positive

Along with keeping your emotions out of it as much as possible, it is also important to keep a positive attitude. This is even more important when your children are around. It is important to remember during this time that your former spouse is still your child’s parent, so it is important to be kind with your language and try to cooperate with your ex as much as possible. This will also make it easier for everyone in the family to have a good holiday season, especially your children.

Our Child Custody Attorney in Brandon Can Help with Your Parenting Plan

If this is your first holiday apart from your spouse, you may find it challenging to reach a time-sharing agreement. At Koether Law, P.A., our Brandon child custody attorney can help you and your former spouse reach an agreement that works for the entire family. Call us now at 813-347-8193 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our knowledgeable attorney and to receive the legal help you need.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html