The holidays are upon us, and while this is often a very exciting and joyous time for many, the end-of-year festivities can also be a source of frustration and sadness for divorced parents and their children. Disputes involving who gets to spend time with which parent/child are a common occurrence, and there’s no magical solution that is sure to guarantee the happiness of all involved parties.

That said, there are some steps you can take to help ease yourself and your loved ones into the holiday season. This post covers several co-parenting tips designed to help parents and children alike make the most out of the holidays. Keep in mind that many of these tips also apply all year round, so be sure to do your part in helping create happy memories even if the family as a whole is no longer under the same roof.

Create and Stick to Pre-Arranged Plans

Vague plans are a major source of conflict, especially if you or the ex are prone to indecision or last-second planning. Save yourself and your loved ones from pain and heartache, make a plan ahead of time and abide by its terms.

Consider Everyone’s WIshes, not Just Your Own

This one can be tricky for many, but simply taking the time to consider everyone’s wishes can help you formulate an effective plan that works for all involved parties. Put any anger or bitterness aside, even if just for the holidays, and work with the ex to try and accommodate everyone’s wants and needs. Above all, be willing to compromise.

Do What’s Best for Your Children

This tip goes along with the previous one, but really think about the best interests of your child. Are you focusing on your own happiness when wrestling with the ex over holiday plans, or are you allowing yourself to consider your child’s happiness and well-being as well? Make sure your co-parenting efforts more always about them and less about furthering a dispute with the ex.

These are just some co-parenting tips to be mindful of as you plan for the holidays, as well as for the upcoming year. While this advice is general in nature, remember that we at the White Oak Law are equipped to provide you with qualified legal counsel.

If you have any questions about divorce, child custody or visitation, or any matters relating to family law in California, we invite you to call us directly at 925-271-0999. Reach out to the seasoned family law attorneys at the White Oak Law today to schedule a initial consultation.