For most people in New Jersey, the holidays are a time of family and making new memories. However, some parents who have gone through a divorce often struggle about how to continue to make memories with their children. Even once parents have legally resolved their differences, including child custody, further conflicts can be experienced over how children will divide their time over the holidays. Fortunately, there are ways to help reduce conflict and ensure that children are still able to enjoy time with their family even while adjusting to the changes in their lives.
Having two parents who are dedicated to peacefully co-parenting with one another is key to success. Rather than arguing over how children will spend their time, having a conversation over which activities and traditions children enjoy the most can be beneficial. Including children in this conversation can be even more helpful.
Once this determination has been made, parents can create a plan that encompasses the activities that are most important to the children. If possible, spending time as a family can also help children see that they still have one family rather than a family that has been split into two. Most important in this process is taking action that prevents children from feeling as if they must choose between one parent or another. The most effective plan is typically one that includes equal time with both parents and extended family members when possible.
There is no doubt that the end of a marriage can be a new and different experience for the entire family. Fortunately, there are certain actions that parents can take throughout the year and during the holidays to help ease children through the transition that comes with a divorce. Parents in New Jersey who are committed to co-parenting can often help ensure that that holidays remain to be a time of happy memories for their children. Often, including provisions in a parenting plan can further reduce conflict.