You and your child’s other parent determined that you will share the holidays, rather than switch off years. While this is the agreement in your parenting plan, in practice it can be a bit more challenging.
Here is what North Carolina co-parents should consider as the holidays they will be sharing approach.
Make sure you know the plan far ahead of time
To put your parenting plan into practice, you and your co-parent must have a plan of action. You both must determine:
- What time your respective celebrations begin and end – and stick to those times
- When you will exchange custody of the children
- What a fair division of time on special holidays will look like for your family
For example, say your family has a celebration on Christmas Eve, and your child’s other parent celebrates on Christmas Day. So, you agree to drop the children off after your celebrations on Christmas Eve to help ensure a reasonably fair division of time.
Timing is everything
It is only natural to get wrapped up in your own holiday plans, especially when you must factor in your extended family as well. However, you must also ensure you plan for the custody exchange. It will help to:
- Keep your co-parent updated on your schedule
- Keep an eye on the clock
- Make sure your child is prepared for the transition, as discussed in a previous blog post
Getting caught up in the holiday cheer – and all of the other matters you must address during holiday gatherings – is easy to do, but you should make extra sure you are on time for the exchange.
Most importantly, communicate with the kids
Of course, your kids do not need to know the same details you and your co-parent do. However, they should know what their holidays will look like. Keep them appropriately in the loop and include them in your holiday planning.
Sharing holidays does not have to be stressful. However, it will require both you and your co-parent to put your kids first and act with compassion this holiday season.