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Find a holiday schedule that works for everyone

On Behalf of | Nov 30, 2018 | Alimony/Spousal Support |

Now that they are in the midst of the holiday season, many Florida parents will need to decide how to divide their time with the children. Many parents may want to spend as much time as possible with their kids, so it is a good idea to have a holiday schedule.

If divorced parents already have a parenting plan, it is a good idea for them to look over the details. According to the Huffington Post, while a parenting plan may include most aspects of daily life, it may not always have detailed information about the holidays. If parents have not yet considered the holidays, it is a good idea for them to speak to each other. They should typically discuss whether they should alternate holidays or have the kids spend part of the day with each of them. If one parent will be traveling, he or she should bring this up. It is a good idea to have this conversation early on, as it may be difficult for people to find a good arrangement if they leave this conversation for the week before the holiday.

When a parent has special plans for the holidays, he or she may want to tell the children about these plans immediately. LiveAbout.com says that parents should typically speak with their ex-spouse before talking to the kids. This is because the children’s other parent may also have special activities in mind. Working out the details first can help parents keep the holidays peaceful for their children. When people discuss a holiday schedule, it is important for them to be honest. If a family member has just rescheduled a holiday party, for example, a parent should generally explain this. Additionally, it is a good idea for parents to listen to each other, especially if one of them wants to modify an existing schedule.

It is important for parents to remember that sometimes a holiday schedule may not look exactly the way they want it to. Because many people host events at this time of year, it may be difficult for a parent to bring his or her children to every event, particularly those taking place in another town. It is a good idea for parents to find ways to compromise so they can each have plenty of time with their children.