Holidays can be a stressful time, and after divorce, they can be even more overwhelming as you face the stress associated with scheduling your children’s time with family during these important days. As such, it’s important to implement a holiday parenting plan. Please continue reading to explore the different types of holiday schedules and how a knowledgeable Suffolk County Child Custody Attorney can help you create a plan for your family so that you can enjoy these special occasions.
What Are the Different Types of Holiday Schedules?
First, it’s crucial to understand that holiday visitation schedules are agreements between separated or divorced parents that outline when each will have custody of their children during the holidays and special occasions. Custody arrangements often differ during holidays. As such, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the different types of schedules available that can help you and your former spouse navigate the holidays to the best of your ability.
Generally, holiday visitation schedules can be either rotating, fixed, or split. In a rotating annual schedule, you and your former spouse will alternate who has custody on each holiday. With this arrangement, you can assign each parent for even years and then swap the holidays in odd years. This means you wouldn’t miss spending a holiday with your child for more than one year in a row.
Another option is to assign fixed holidays to each parent based on which they value the most. You can assign each parent to celebrate a specific holiday with the child every year. This is a viable option if parents have different holidays that they think are important. Furthermore, depending on your circumstances, you can split holidays. This would allow each parent to spend time with their children on every holiday, whether it be splitting the day or spending the holiday together.
How Do I Pick the Best Holiday Custody Schedule?
While you can use any combination of these schedules to divide and share holiday time with your children, you must consider your unique family dynamic. Each schedule has its benefits and drawbacks. It’s important to consider various factors such as the age of your children, the distance between parents’ homes, both parents’ work schedules, religious beliefs, and traditions.
If you and your former spouse are on good terms, spending the holidays together can reduce the stress of your children traveling. However, this is not a good option if spending time together would increase conflict. If parents live far from each other, it may be challenging to follow a rotating schedule. You should note that younger children will likely have a difficult time adjusting to a rating holiday schedule. On the other hand, older children may prefer a more flexible schedule.
Unfortunately, your former spouse may not be willing to cooperate and divide holiday custody. If this is the case, it’s in your best interest to contact a skilled attorney from The Law Offices of Susan A. Kassel, P.C., who can help you fight for a fair parenting plan for holidays and special occasions. Connect with our firm today to learn more about how we can assist you.
