If you’ve been through a divorce recently, you may be eyeing the upcoming holiday season with trepidation. As a loving parent, you want nothing more than to give your little ones the beautiful festivities they deserve. Follow these tips to help the holidays go smoothly.

Holidays After Divorce: 5 Ways to Keep Kids Happy 

1. Coordinate With Your Ex in Advance

There are many ways to create a fair custody arrangement for the holidays. You can alternate celebrations, so the kids spend Thanksgiving at one parent’s house and Christmas with the other parent. If you live nearby, you can share the day—let your kids celebrate Christmas morning at one home, then head over the other one’s place for dinner. If the recent divorce was amicable, you may even consider spending the day together.

2. Be Prepared for Compromises

A happy holiday season will likely require making some compromises, like going to your child’s holiday choir recital alongside your ex. Remember that supporting your children is important, and you will need to work together to ensure they don’t feel stuck in the middle. 

3. Communicate About Gifts

Talk to your ex about which gifts to buy to ensure you don’t duplicate presents. Don’t compete for who can buy kids more or larger presents. Remember you want to teach your kids that the season is about gratitude, giving, and compassion—not materialistic possessions.

4. Create New Traditions

Accept that some traditions may fade and be prepared to make new ones. If you moved away from your nearby tree lot, take the opportunity to scope out a local farm instead. If you’ve always loved making holiday breakfasts with your children, but they will not be at your house the morning of celebrations, try baking cookies with them. Find something new to do together; you may be surprised by the unique traditions you create.

5. Include Extended Family

Incorporating extended family is a great way to keep kids from feeling like something is missing from the celebrations. From baking cookies with grandma to a gift exchange with cousins, see what your loved ones can do to help you keep up the cheer.

If you need legal advice regarding divorce or child custody, Swartz Law Office of Batavia, OH, can help. Family lawyer Donald K. Swartz has over 14 years of experience in Ohio and Kentucky. He knows how tough these issues can be, and he and his legal team will provide the compassionate guidance you need. Check out the overview of his practice areas online. For an appointment, call (513) 732-0900.