Divorced parents need to start planning now for the holiday season.  It may seem far off.  However, the holidays will be here before you know it.  First up…Thanksgiving.

Families who are divorced or separated should start planning now to ensure the holidays are as drama-free as possible and the children have great memories with both parents.

Sound impossible?  It’s not.  Both parents WILL need to put aside their personal grievances and focus on their children.  Do you want your children to remember magical experiences or the continued arguing of their parents?  It’s up to you.  But if you decide to act in your kids’ best interests, you will need to make plans together.

Obviously, making plans face-to-face may not work for every former couple.  You can also make a schedule over email, through text or even through a joint Google document.  Do this as soon as possible, so there’s time to work out a final schedule and no one is disappointed or giving their relatives false hopes for the holidays that the children will be with them.

How Divorced Parents Should Start

Before you get started, be sure you have all the information you need:

• Find out exactly when Thanksgiving and Winter Breaks begin and end at your child’s school.
• Get a copy of the Indiana Parenting Guidelines.
• Check with your side of the family to see what dates and times they will be gathering.
• Check with older children about their preferences for vacation.

Once you have this information, decide how to divide the time over the school break and on each specific holiday.  Maybe your ex’s family celebrates Christmas morning.  The kids could start the day there and then move to your family’s afternoon celebration.

Do the planning now, before the stressful holiday season starts, and plan what is best for your children.  There is no magic schedule that works for everyone. Only you and your ex can decide how to make the holidays memorable for the kids.  If you can’t come to a negotiated agreement, turn to the parenting guidelines for help and a definitive plan.

Need help with any Parenting Time issues?

Call Family Law Attorney

Mary Foley Panszi

317-732-1500.