Co-Parenting Over Christmas – Ideas to Help

Talking To Children About Divorce

Here are some ideas and strategies to help navigate co-parenting during the holiday season:

1. Create a Clear Plan Early

• Discuss in Advance: Collaboratively plan how Christmas and surrounding holidays will be shared to avoid last-minute conflicts.
• Alternate Holidays: Consider alternating Christmas Day each year or splitting the holiday break.
• Share the Day: If proximity allows, split the day so the child spends time with both parents.

2. Focus on the Children

• Keep Them at the Center: Prioritize your children’s happiness and well-being when making decisions.
• Ask for Input: For older children, involve them in planning to make them feel valued.

3. Communicate Positively

• Be Clear and Respectful: Maintain open communication with your co-parent, focusing on logistics rather than personal grievances.
• Use Technology: Shared calendars or co-parenting apps can help streamline planning.

4. Coordinate Gifts

• Avoid Duplicates: Discuss gifts to prevent overlap and ensure fairness.
• Focus on Experiences: Consider joint gifts or experiences your child will cherish.

5. Create New Traditions

• Embrace Flexibility: Celebrate on a different day if needed—children love multiple celebrations!
• Unique Rituals: Start traditions that make your time special, like baking cookies or watching a favorite holiday movie.

6. Be Mindful of Emotions

• Acknowledge Feelings: The holidays can stir emotions for everyone. Allow space for kids (and yourself) to express how they feel.
• Stay Positive: Avoid negative talk about the other parent, especially during this emotionally charged season.

7. Use Neutral Drop-Off Locations

• If tensions are high, choose a neutral location for drop-offs to minimize stress for the children.

8. Have a Backup Plan

• Be prepared for unexpected changes, like illness or weather, and agree on how to handle them in advance.

9. Embrace Technology for Connection

• If your child can’t be with one parent, schedule video calls to keep everyone connected.

10. Take Care of Yourself

• Use any time apart to relax or engage in activities you enjoy, so you can be your best self for your child.

11. Support Blended Families

• Coordinate schedules to include stepsiblings or extended family, ensuring everyone feels part of the celebration.

I was delighted to have been interviewed about Co-Parenting over Christmas – often a tricky and stressful time for The Divorce Magazine.

We focused on helping children of divorced parents’ during their first christmas and their life after divorce co -parenting.

Click here to read and watch the video.