Holidays are wonderful opportunities for you to spend valuable time with your children. Although your family will be structured differently when your divorce is finalized, that doesn’t mean you (and your spouse) won’t have the ability to make lasting memories with your children. Many parents may worry that they may fall out of their children’s lives, but take comfort in this: You will have a parenting plan (an agreement) that outlines the decisions you can make for your children and what time-sharing will look like.
Let’s Discuss Holidays
Holidays can be challenging for parents because they aren’t always easy to split, and they can disrupt the visitation schedule you use throughout the year. For example, holiday visitation takes precedence over weekend visitation. If you are in the middle of a divorce, know there are numerous ways to craft a suitable agreement for you and your family. Your attorney will guide you through this and help you find the resolution you need.
For example, Thanksgiving breaks can be alternated from year to year. Because Christmas vacations are two weeks long, parents can each receive one—and you can switch every other year.
Adopting the Right Mindset
There are times when both parents are going to need to be flexible. Remember that the holidays are special times for your children. This is about their needs as opposed to your own. That is a fundamental component of being a great co-parent.
Another important thing we should address is that you and your spouse will disagree about things that surface during your co-parenting relationship. The question that both parents need to ask themselves is how they will deal with these challenges.
The agreement order only has control if both parents can’t agree. That said, you and your spouse can deviate from the plan, especially if you are being flexible for the sake of your child. It takes an incredibly mature and responsible adult to put aside their personal feelings, so they can find a resolution that is truly in their child’s best interest. For instance, it may be your year to be with your child on Thanksgiving. If your son or daughter wants to eat Thanksgiving dinner with both parents (and maybe even their newfound significant others), can you do it even though the order doesn’t say it? Yes, if you and your spouse can agree on it.
Speak With A Family Law Attorney Who Wants To Empower You
The last scenario we spoke about may seem implausible to someone going through a divorce—but that doesn’t mean it can’t happen. It may take years to reach that point, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t aim for it. Empowered Family Law is always focused on finding a long-term solution. We have an entire network of professionals to assist you during this challenging time in your life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
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