The holiday season is often difficult for children of separated parents, especially their first one during or after divorce. If you are going through divorce or legal separation proceedings in Hawaii, it’s time to create a holiday custody schedule. Here are ways to address custody issues and prepare your kids for a holiday season that will be different, but hopefully no less joyful.

3 Ways to Help Your Kids Enjoy the Holidays While Going Through Divorce

1. Provide for Flexible Joint Custody Options

Parents who are flexible and cooperative with each other will help their children cope with the seasonal changes. Create a schedule to split your children’s time between you and the other parent. One option is having the children spend the first half of the Thanksgiving or winter break with one parent, and spend the second half with the other parent. Parents can rotate this schedule each year.

An alternative is for one parent to have the children for the entire winter break one year, and next year, the other parent will have them. This option is more convenient if the children are traveling a long distance, such as to the mainland or out of the country.

2. Consider the Children’s Wants and Needs  

Keep in mind your children’s wants and needs change as they age. What works at age six or seven might not when they turn 12 or 13. When they are mature enough, consider letting your kids choose where they want to spend time during the holiday season.

3. Create New Single-Parent and Child Holiday Traditions

Children may long for familiar holiday traditions that are no longer feasible in your single-parent custody arrangement. Ease into the new situation by introducing another holiday tradition, such as preparing a special dessert together, taking a tour of a holiday lights display, or hand-making a family gift for a child in need.  

If you and your child’s other parent need help resolving holiday custody arrangements in your legal separation or divorce case, seek counsel from Everett Cuskaden & Associates, ALC. Serving parents throughout the Honolulu, HI, area, for more than 35 years, these compassionate divorce attorneys are trained and experienced in mediation and arbitration. Their goal is reaching a resolution that provides the greatest benefits for you and your child. Visit their website to learn more about their practice areas, and call (808) 545-1331 to make a consultation appointment today.