As a loving parent, one of your biggest priorities after a divorce is your children's well-being. It's important to make it clear to kids that both parents will continue to be in their lives. However, the holiday season can be tricky. A divorce lawyer can draft the necessary paperwork regarding child custody and visitation to help you navigate the festivities. Use the following guide to learn more about how you can have an enjoyable celebration.

How Can You Enjoy a Festive Holiday Season After Divorce?

1. Plan Ahead

Revisit your child custody and visitation schedule before the holiday season to confirm how you'll split time. Some families opt for alternating holidays, with one parent getting the kids every other Christmas. Others plan for fixed holidays, allowing one parent to get the kids for Thanksgiving, and the other may always get the kids for Christmas. If you and your ex live close to one another, you may also split each holiday. Whatever arrangement you've reached, confirm it with your ex to avoid confusion. If you want to deviate from your usual child custody and visitation plan, consult your divorce lawyer first, since you may need approval from the courts for such changes.

2. Discuss Gifts In Advance

Talk to your former partner before buying presents for your kids. It's wise to split up your little ones' wish lists, ensuring you don't give them similar items. Furthermore, you want to avoid getting into a competition as to which parent is giving more presents. Finally, you want to ensure any potentially controversial gifts, such as a pet dog, are approved by both parents.

3. Make New Traditions

The hardest part of the holidays after divorce is not being able to uphold old family traditions. As a result, it's best to take the opportunity to make new ones. For example, if you used to always get your Christmas tree from a local store, head to a tree farm instead to cut one down for an exciting new tradition. It can also be helpful to invite your extended family to join you for Christmas so that your little ones can get used to seeing them more often.

If you're still figuring out your child custody and visitation arrangements, trust Louis C. Noto for help. Located in Rochester, NY, this divorce lawyer has served the community for over 48 years. Attorney Noto approaches his clients with understanding and compassion. Learn more about his services online, and call (585) 232-1815 to request a consultation.