How Can I Help My Children Cope With Holiday Stress During My Divorce?

 Posted on December 16, 2020 in Divorce

For many families, the winter months are filled with weeks of celebrations, time spent with loved ones, and meals gathered around the family table. At the same time, the holiday season can be abundantly stressful, especially for children whose parents are going through or who have already gone through a divorce or a separation. During the first holiday season after the separation, parents often face difficulty when it comes to bringing the magic of the season alive in their homes, but there are some things you can do to help. 

Managing the Holidays After Divorce

Here are a few things you can do to make the holidays easier for you and your children after your divorce:

• Expect emotional reactions from your children. The first holiday season after your separation will likely be one of the hardest you will experience. While you may understand that the sadness that you feel during this holiday season will not last, your children may not. They may become frustrated, or they may not understand why things this year are different from years before. When you notice your child’s mood beginning to take a turn, try encouraging your child to talk about what they are feeling.

• Discuss gifts with your co-parent. The holidays can also be a source of disagreement between co-parents for many reasons. One of the most common reasons co-parents argue during the holidays is over gift-giving. You and your spouse should discuss presents with one another prior to the holiday. If your co-parent insists on giving a particular gift, it may be best to concede in the spirit of the season.

• Remember what is truly important about the holiday season. After you and your spouse are separated, everything is different, especially during the holidays. If you are still going through your divorce, holiday stress can add more fuel to the fire of the divorce. However, before you make any rash decisions, you should remember what is truly important during the holidays: the happiness of your children. For the sake of the children, try to put your differences aside to minimize the conflict during what is supposed to be a cheerful and joyous time.

Contact a Wheaton, IL Divorce Attorney Today

Even though the first holiday season after your separation is bound to be different than holidays past, it does not have to be miserable. At the Goostree Law Group, we will work with you to create a parenting plan that meets the needs of your family and that contains information pertaining to holiday parenting time. To schedule a free consultation with one of our DuPage County divorce lawyers, call our office today at 630-364-4046.

Sources:

https://www.ourfamilywizard.com/blog/helping-children-experience-holidays-less-stress

https://childmind.org/article/divorced-for-the-holidays-what-to-give-the-kids/