Tips for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving and Holiday Season
It’s the holiday season, a time for family. Unfortunately, when your marriage has ended in divorce and there are minor children, working out arrangements involves a tricky balance that can be challenging and emotionally draining. You have to give priority to the needs of the children and also provide both parents with meaningful holiday time. Here are some strategies for managing child custody and visitation during the holidays in Texas.
Always Give Priority to the Needs of Your Children
Not only is it the law, it’s what’s best for the short-term and long-term well-being of your children. There may be times where your child really needs to be with the other parent. Be willing to let that happen, if necessary. Your children will always know that you love them, even if you’re not with them.
Of course, giving priority to the best interests of your children generally means helping ensure that they have a healthy, positive, and meaningful relationship with both parents. Encourage them to spend time with your ex when appropriate.
Be Intentional About Communicating With the Other Parent
Misunderstandings are common, even when there’s not a lot going on. During the holidays, though, you’ll be distracted by a wide range of activities. Make communication with your ex a priority. Ask your ex what their plans are for the holidays. Be aware of any major events, including family gatherings, school, or church events. Remember that communication is a two-way street. If you don’t hear from your ex, be the one to reach out.
Start Planning Holiday Visitation as Early as Possible
It’s almost never too early to start talking with your ex about the visitation you’d both like at the holidays. The earlier you begin the conversation, the more flexibility you’ll typically both have. In addition, having a mutual understanding in advance will eliminate a lot of the stress in your life and help you be more cooperative and engaged. Be willing, though, if possible, to make last minute changes that are in the best interests of your children.
Understand That You Can’t Always Have Everything
Most of life is about compromise. It’s the same when it comes to your children. They can’t be in two places at once, so you’ll have to sort out when they’ll be where. Be fair about it. If they spent Christmas morning with you last year, be willing to let them be with the other parent this year.
Don’t Show Your Love Through the Things You Buy
Don’t fall into the trap of believing that the more material things you give your child, the more they’ll know you love them. Often, lavishing them with gifts makes them feel uncomfortable. The best thing to do is to talk with your ex before the holidays and agree to a specific dollar amount that you’ll each spend. Know what your child is getting from the other parent, so you don’t duplicate it. You may even contribute jointly with the other parent for a larger gift, showing your children your ability to work together.
Contact the Proven Family Law Attorneys at Bailey & Galyen
At the law offices of Bailey & Galyen, we have protected the rights of clients across Texas for more than four decades, including individuals seeking to work out effective custody and visitation arrangements, particularly during the holidays. We have a thorough understanding of the laws in Texas, and we know how to help you put a custody and visitation agreement in place that will be in the best interests of your minor child while also protecting your rights as a parent. We offer a free initial consultation to anyone involved in a child custody or visitation controversy. Contact us by e-mail or call our offices at one of the convenient locations listed below. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
