If you have shared or joint custody, you and your former spouse must work together to maintain and adjust to the guidelines set by the courts. For parents who always crave more time with their children, this can be especially challenging during the holidays. Use this guide to try to negotiate the terms of your family law agreement with your co-parent.

3 Ways to Negotiate Child Custody for the Holidays

1. Think of Their Best Interests

Consider how your children have spent the holidays in the past and where it’s most convenient for them. For example, if your spouse has always baked cookies with the kids on Christmas Eve, they’ll probably be happier maintaining this tradition.

2. Split Holidays

You and your spouse may be able to work out a compromise with the help of your family law attorneys. If you aren’t willing to relinquish custody for an entire holiday, you can split the most important ones. For example, while your children spend Thanksgiving dinner with your former spouse, they can stay at your home the night before so that you can wake up and watch the parade over pancakes together. You and your co-parent can switch between a.m. and p.m. schedules each year to maintain a sense of fairness.

3. Ask Your Kids

If you and your spouse have conflicting ideas about where the children will be most comfortable, ask your kids. Make it clear that you don’t want them to choose between their parents and that you’re simply asking for their preference. For example, some children may care a lot about Halloween night and want to trick-or-treat with neighborhood friends while having no preference for New Years’.

If you’re running into questions or conflicts about your current custody agreement, turn to the Law Office of Carmen DiAmore-Siah in Honolulu, HI. For over 20 years, she has worked with clients throughout Oahu, helping them resolve challenging issues, like divorce and custody agreements. Learn more about her family law services online, or call (808) 531-2277 to schedule a free consultation.