When you are divorced, Thanksgiving can be a stressful holiday. The day is centered around spending time with family, so you may be dreading it this year. It is common to feel anxiety, stress and frustration as you think about the beginning of the holiday season.
However, you can make the best of this holiday, whether you have the kids this year or not. Read below for the best tips on achieving success as you co-parent during the holidays.
1. Start planning now
Do not wait until the last minute to deal with your Thanksgiving schedule. If you do not have details for the custody exchange yet, make sure you set something up to avoid confusion and frustration when the holiday comes. Reach out to your ex soon so you can hash things out so you do not have to worry.
2. Put your kids first
As tempting as it is to let anger and bitterness towards your ex take over, make sure you think about your kids. Spending holidays with divorced parents can be confusing for children, so do not make it worse by saying bad things about your ex in front of them.
3. Make sure divorce talk is off-limits
If you have not seen some family members since your divorce, they may want to ask you about it or even bash your ex. Communicate to Thanksgiving guests that discussions about the divorce will not be tolerated because you want to create a drama-free atmosphere.
4. Be lenient
According to coparently.com, you should be willing to compromise on your Thanksgiving child custody plans. Instead of bashing heads with the other parent, try to focus on solutions. This is sure to make for a much healthier co-parenting relationship and let your kids know you care.
With a little effort, you can make it through Thanksgiving, even though it can be difficult after divorce.
