Custody and the Holidays

While many eagerly await the holidays, for those sharing custody, holidays can be a little less joyful at times. With the holidays just around the corner, it is essential for co-parents to keep their custody agreements front of mind when making holiday plans for travel or gatherings. It is vital for co-parents to work together to create the best possible holiday season for their children, keeping them first. 

Know Your Custody Agreement

While it may seem like an obvious statement, it is important to be well-versed in your custody agreement. Knowing exactly what your agreement says is imperative to effectively planning your time with your children. A common time arrangement in custody agreements is to alternate holidays between parents. Some mothers have their children on odd-numbered years and the father has Christmas with the kids in even-numbered years. Ensuring that you are clear on your agreement and arrangements with your co-parent can allow for a less stressful holiday season. 

Communication is Everything 

Things happen. And as hard as we may try, plans can fail. Unforeseen circumstances can warrant changes in holiday scheduling. It is very important to communicate early, and often, in instances where some changes maybe taking place. In an ideal situation, being able to navigate situations and develop alternate plans with a co-parent will be in the best interest of your children. While changes can feel frustrating 

Focus on What Matters

The purpose of a custody order is to serve the best interest of your children after the dissolution of your relationship with your co-parent. The main focus should always be your children and their well-being. This applies to the holidays as well. Co-parents should work together to provide the best possible holidays for their children, even in a new family dynamic. 

What Happen When There are Issues?

While we’d like to think that everything will be sparkly and pretty and totally fine, that’s not always the case. Holidays in general can lend themselves to difficult scenarios and stressful situations. It is important to work with your family law attorney to ensure your rights are being enforced and your custody agreement is understood and upheld.