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For some, the worst part of the holidays will be untangling and hanging the strands of Christmas lights, for others it’s the in-laws hanging around a little too long. But for many it’s a chaotic and lonely time especially when there has been a separation or divorce which can hang like a cloud over the season. The children likely will be to splitting the holidays between two homes which might be exciting for them because they will get double the gifts.  All fun and gifts aside, though, as lawyers we see quite a stormy time during the holidays because emotions run high, parents are hostile towards each other and family can be… family. While all hardships cannot be prevented during the holiday season, here are a few tips to reduce the stress:

1. If you have a Court ordered parenting plan, stick to it.

2. If you do not have a temporary parenting plan in place, talk to your attorney early on, especially if you do not think you will be able to come to an agreement with the other parent.

3. Keep in mind that this time of year will be hard on your children, as well. Even if you detest the other parent, your children still need to spend time with him or her during the holidays.

If there is no parenting plan in place yet, or the holidays haven’t even entered into your thoughts yet, here are a few popular options for you to consider:

1. Every other holiday, every other year. For example, the children can spend Thanksgiving with Dad and Christmas with Mom this year, and alternate next year.

2. If you are living close enough, it may be possible to split the day in half.

3. If the other parent is scheduled for parenting time the day of, consider starting a new tradition of celebrating on the day before.

For a family that has been split up by a divorce, sadness and frustration at the holidays are to be expected. However, by sticking to your parenting plan, working out potential issues in advance, and remembering your children you can reduce the anxiety and stress that can come along with this difficult time.

By: Nicole Vincent, Attorney at Robinson & Henry, P.C..  Robinson & Henry is a full service law firm located at 757 Maleta Lane, Ste., 104, Castle Rock, CO 80108.  (303) 688-0944 or on the web at www.robinsonandhenry.com.