Divorce and separation are always painful for families in Texas, and things can get even tougher around the winter holidays. In many cases, this is the first time that the spouses will not be spending this time together. Change of this type often raises questions as to where the children will be during the festivities.
While a marriage may be drawing to an end, the relationship between parent and child continues. It’s understandable, therefore, that each parent may want to spend time with their children over the holidays and particularly covet a child’s presence at traditional family events. When schedules conflict, tensions can flare.
If a divorce is still in process, it may be that the parents have not yet negotiated parenting time during the holidays. In such cases, the former spouses may need to arrange a temporary plan for the current year. While this can be challenging, particularly during an acrimonious divorce, the children are counting on their parents to develop an agreement that allows for them to have a happy holiday.
Parenting experts encourage parents to be willing to compromise holiday time. For example, if a family typically spends Christmas Eve with one side of the family and the day after Christmas at another family gathering, maintaining this schedule may reduce tensions and provide some consistency for the children.
Individuals considering divorce may benefit from speaking with an experienced family law attorney. The lawyer may be able to review the client’s case and make recommendations regarding parenting plans, child custody and holiday schedules. An attorney may also be able to handle other aspects of a divorce, such as property division and spousal support.