Deborah Lenee' gives strategies for navigating the holiday schedules with your co-parent partner.
Figure out a schedule in advance
Consider sharing the holidays together - I know it is not for everyone.. maybe not for this year or season but with time and space it is possible.
Benefits of sharing the holidays:
· Both parents get to see the child on the actual holiday
· No disputes of having equal time or transfers
· Your child’s life is less disrupted
· Have both parents together for a peaceful time can make the child feel secure and happy
· Making memories
· You solidify the fact that you are and will always be a family
Coordinate Gifts – .
Help your child shop – shopping with your child for the other parent will make will teach your child a valuable lesson about giving and if you aren’t getting along with your ex the act of helping your child buy a gift for the ex is an actual gift for your child and a valuable lesson
Surround yourself with family and friends
Take Care of yourself –
Plan alternate celebrations –
Limit interactions with ex if need be –
I am going to end today with a quote from Julieanne O’Conner – “It is not about your presents but it is about your presence, therein lies the spirit of the Holiday”