Child Custody and Holidays: Everything You Need to Know

Divorce puts a significant strain on everyone involved, especially the children. As families try to navigate this complicated process and adjust to all the changes, divorce can negatively impact your kids. Although your children want to continue to see both parents daily, this doesn’t usually happen.

 

While some modern families continue to share the holidays, this isn’t common. Therefore, depending on your custody agreement, most families are forced to split the holidays. While it can be challenging to agree about the holidays, it’s vital to do what’s best for the children. The best way to handle the holidays if you are divorced is to create an agreement that makes your children feel comfortable. Let’s look at everything you need to know about child custody and the holidays.

 

Holiday Custody Agreements: Where To Start

 

Even in the most amicable divorces, it’s a good idea to get your child custody arrangement notarized by the court. If you can’t come to a reasonable agreement, the court will create a plan for you. However, it’s always best to try to work together to set a plan that’s in the best interest of your children. Here are some tips to help you create a child custody arrangement for the holidays:

 

1.   Make a Schedule

 

When you’re trying to divide the holidays, it can be challenging to decide where to start. Making a schedule first can give you a snapshot of the holidays. You can either work the holidays around your standard custody agreement, split the holidays equally, or divide them by odd and equal years.

 

2.   Ask for Help

 

If you’re having trouble coming up with a fair split, ask the court for help. If you want to avoid going to court, a court-appointed mediator can help you create an agreement. A mediator will help you go through the schedule and come to a settlement that allows each parent the amount of time they deserve.

 

3.   Don’t Forget School Breaks

 

While creating a holiday schedule is essential, most parents forget to include school breaks. This can lead to conflict when spring and winter vacations come around. Include school breaks in your agreement. This won’t just help you avoid conflict with your ex-spouse, but it will also keep your children from getting stressed. Kids like to know where they will be for holidays and vacations. It gives them a sense of security and ensures they get to see both sides of their family.

 

Some holidays and vacations to consider in your plan include:

 

  • Easter
  • Christmas
  • Thanksgiving
  • Hanukkah
  • Kwanza
  • Fourth of July
  • Spring Break
  • Winter Break
  • Mother’s Day
  • Father’s Day
  • New Years
  • Labor Day
  • Memorial Day

 

While holidays vary based on your religious preferences, you should consider including any holiday your kids have off from school in your agreement.

 

If you need help with your holiday custody arrangements, our team is here to help! Consult with an expert Lancaster divorce lawyer.

 

 

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