We are getting closer to Christmas, and this can have a major impact on scheduling for co-parents after a divorce. They need to know how to address the holiday season, and it is often best to plan well in advance.
There are cases where no alterations in the schedule are made. For instance, say that you and your ex swap custody of your children every other week. You may simply decide to stick with that schedule, and whichever parent would naturally have custody over Christmas will still have custody. In many cases, however, both parents want a chance to see the kids over the holidays, so some small changes may be necessary.
Alternating holidays
One common tactic is to alternate different holidays between the parents. You see the children on Christmas this year, but your ex has them for Christmas next year. At the same time, you have the children for Thanksgiving next year, and your ex has them this year.
Dividing Christmas Day
Another option can be to split up Christmas Day itself, such as having the children start the day with Christmas morning at your house and then go to your ex’s house after lunch. One determining factor is how close you live to one another, as this does necessitate travel in the middle of the holiday.
Planning to celebrate together
If you had a high-conflict divorce and do not want to spend time with your ex, this may not be a viable solution. However, if you and your ex are on good terms, then you may simply be able to make plans to spend time together so that you each get to see the children all day.
These are just a few options to consider. They show why it is so important to understand your legal rights and options over the holidays.