Managing child custody during the holidays
Child custody issues are magnified this time of year. There are the arguments over who gets what days, what traditions are continued and how to divvy up all the extended family parties. It can be a nightmare for some, but it doesn’t have to be.
Did you know, January is one of the most popular months when it comes to filing for divorce? That means while most of us are enjoying the holidays, others are contemplating the end of their marriage. And who usually gets caught in the middle? The children.
To better manage holiday child custody issues we’ve come up with a few tips. (There is no right or wrong way to divide up the holidays, these ideas will simply help reduce any stress)
Child Custody During the Holidays
Remember what’s best for the kids and try to set aside any ill feelings for each other. Your children are priority #1, so try to think about the holidays from their perspective.
Both parents need to spend quality time with the children. The key to this working is with good communication and cooperation. Be sure to keep your family traditions and celebrations in mind as well.
What’s good for your ex is good for your children. No matter what happens you’re connected to that person for life so it’s better for everyone to work as a team.
Extended family may not have any say in legal matters when it comes to child custody but they too want to spend time with them. Grandparents, aunts and uncles, whomever, should also be made aware of the arrangements that have been made when it comes to a holiday schedule.
Be proactive. Don’t wait until December to determine where the kids will spend the night on Christmas Eve or the first day of Hanukkah.
Don’t do the custodial exchange on the holiday. Nothing teaches children to dislike a holiday more than having to suffer through a custodial exchange every time the holiday arrives. Instead, do the exchange a day or two after the holiday.
Child custody rulings can include specific instructions about the holidays. If that’s not the case for you, we can help.
Contact Nevada Family Law Group, we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have about your child custody.
