The holiday season is here—a time for joy, laughter, and family traditions. The excitement of buying gifts, hearing children’s laughter as they decorate the Christmas tree, baking cookies, and making gingerbread men fills the air.
But amidst this festive spirit, you might find yourself standing in the corner of your home, fighting back tears. The challenges of co-parenting after separation can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to dividing the holiday schedule.
Perhaps your parenting plan hasn’t been updated in years. Back then, your children were in their early childhood years, but now they’re pre-adolescents with their own preferences and voices.
Challenges You Might Be Facing
- Hearing the Kid's Voices:
Your children might have different ideas about how they want to spend the holidays. Johnny wants to be with you, while Sara prefers to stay with the other parent. In the past, both children spent Christmas Day together at one parent’s home, but now they want to spend time with specific cousins or have sleepovers with relatives.
- Unexpected Changes by the Other Parent:
Your ex might have made plans without consulting you, such as purchasing tickets and taking the kids away during your scheduled parenting time. These unexpected changes can be stressful and frustrating.
How Inventive Minds Can Help
At Inventive Minds, we understand how emotional and challenging these situations can be. Our team specializes in helping families navigate conflicts and develop parenting plans that reflect the current developmental needs of children.
We believe in resolving conflicts collaboratively to create solutions that work for everyone.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Impact on Child Support and Activities:
Changes to the parenting schedule, even during the holidays, can affect child support agreements and extended extracurricular activities. It’s important to address these adjustments to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Book Your Free Consultation
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling to navigate last-minute holiday schedule changes, we’re here to help. Book a free consultation with us today to find solutions that work for your family.
Authored By:
Rose Morsh
RECE, Parenting Practitioner,
Family & Child-Inclusive Mediator,
Collaborative Law Family & Child Expert,
International Parent Coordinator & Family Mediator,
Child Voice Practitioner.