THE DO’S & DON’TS OF CHILD CUSTODY DURING THE HOLIDAYS

The holidays can be an incredibly stressful time, especially if you’re a parent who has gone through a separation or divorce. Handling the holidays with a restructured family forces you to rethink some of your plans and expectations. Here are some guidelines on how to handle your situation this year to maintain the cheer.

DO review your child custody agreement ahead of time. If you have one in place, review it now. It is very common to rotate annually. Your order may also specify drop off and pick up times. It’s easy to forget the details. That’s why you should review it before it’s too late and someone gets upset. If it isn’t laid out, make a clear plan with the other parent ahead of time.

DON’T put your children in the middle of disputes. You may not agree with the other place your kids in the terrible position of having to choose between parents. If it doesn’t go your way, try to accept the situation and choose to make the best of it. DO discuss holiday plans with your children. Once a plan and schedule has been of time so they can anticipate what their holiday will look like.

DON’T be afraid to start new traditions. Instead of trying to replicate all your old traditions, create something completely new. For example, have a Christmas Eve game night or eat cookies for breakfast. It gives your kids something to look forward to and less time to dwell on the past. But you don’t have to eliminate all old traditions either. If possible, try to make them happen.

This holiday season put your energy into making it a great one for your kids. Things may not go exactly as you had wanted, but try to handle it with grace and sanity.

Gregory Beane, a Lake Highlands resident, is er parties and themed days at the office. Thus the typical thrift stores are in short supply of tacky holiday wear. Thankfully there is THE UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER POP-UP SHOP, which offers a concentrated inventory of tasteless Santa and snowflake emblazoned knits. Find it all month at 6333 E. Mockingbird, suite 141.