For many divorced parents, the holidays can be an incredibly challenging time. While this is supposed to be a time to celebrate with loved ones, it can be lonely when you don’t have custody of your children. As such, it can be incredibly hard to navigate. Taking the time to work with your ex-spouse and a Somerset County family law attorney is critical to ensure you can make it through the holidays with as little stress as possible for you and your children. The following blog explores some of the best tips to help you create a holiday custody schedule for your family so you can enjoy the season.
What Are the Different Types of Custody?
During the holidays, it’s important to understand that your custody schedule may differ from the traditional one to account for the special occasion. As such, there are different types of schedules that can help you and your ex-spouse navigate the holidays to the best of your ability.
The first option is to go with a rotating annual schedule. This means you and your ex-spouse will alternate who spends what holiday with the children each year. For example, Parent A may spend Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and Easter with the child, while Parent B gets Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and the Fourth of July. The following year, the parents would swap holidays.
Another option is to assign fixed holidays to each parent based on which one they would like the most. This can be difficult, however, as both parents likely want big holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Eve.
Finally, depending on your circumstances, you may decide that you can each spend time with the child on every holiday, whether it be splitting the day or spending the holiday together.
How Do I Pick the Best Holiday Custody Schedule for My Family?
Each type of schedule has benefits and disadvantages, and your unique circumstances and family dynamic will play a considerable role in determining which option is best for you. For example, if you and your ex-spouse can spend time together on the actual holiday, it can help alleviate the stress of your children traveling, but it’s not a viable option for couples who are not on the best terms.
Additionally, if you choose to split and rotate holidays, it can be hard on the parent who does not have custody on the day. However, you may opt to celebrate the day before or after the official holiday, which can help alleviate the feelings of sadness you may experience.
Unfortunately, your spouse may not be as willing to divide holiday custody with you, which can make the holidays even more stressful than they already are. As such, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney who can help you fight for a fair parenting plan this holiday season. At the Siragusa Law Firm, our team understands how important these matters are to you. Contact us today to learn how we can be of assistance.
