Sharing custody of your children is always difficult, particularly during birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions. Being unable to share these experiences with their children often leaves noncustodial parents feeling sad and left out, which can prompt additional conflicts and inflame tensions within the family. Fortunately, careful planning and the help of a skilled family law attorney can minimize disputes and ensure you have a chance to build memories with your children.

3 Tips for Noncustodial Parents on Handling Special Occasions

1. Consider Holidays During Negotiations

Revising a child custody order once it’s in effect can be expensive and arduous, so negotiate visitation and celebration schedules in advance. Even if you and your spouse reach an agreement on how to navigate holidays and special occasions, a consultation with a family law firm may bring up issues you hadn’t yet considered. Resolving these differences in advance may prevent conflicts that will spoil the holidays for your children.

2. Try to Be Flexible

Situations change from one year to the next, and special occasions your children would like to attend may arise. If, for example, you technically have a right to see your children on Thanksgiving but the other parent’s family is hosting a large dinner, consider rescheduling your plans so your children can attend both or offer to trade for a later holiday. In some cases, this may establish goodwill that makes future negotiations less stressful.

3. Consider Celebrating Together

If you and your former spouse are capable of setting aside your differences for an evening, spending holidays and special occasions together may be the easiest solution. This approach gives children the sense of stability they need and allows both parents to share in their special experiences.

Since 1985, the legal team at Smith & Tabor Attorneys At Law has helped clients throughout Toccoa, GA through the complexities of family law, including divorces and child custody disputes. They understand how important these issues are, so they strive to give each client the personalized attention they deserve. Visit their website for information on their family law services and call (706) 886-5141 to speak with an attorney today.