Christmas is traditionally when families spend time together. It can be a particularly hard time for parents who have separated or who are going through divorce. It is only natural that both parents want to spend time with their children on Christmas Day.
If you cannot make arrangements yourselves our family mediator can work with both parents to make arrangements for the Christmas period, that work for both parents, and most importantly for your children.
Here are our mediator’s tips for dealing with Christmas arrangements:-
- Try and make arrangements well in advance of Christmas – this will ensure that if there is a problem you have time to sort it out;
- Think about how the arrangements will impact on the children; and the logistics;
- Think about future Christmases: consider making alternate arrangements in future years;
- If you can, discuss presents with your ex to avoid you both buying the same thing and most importantly to avoid competition for the best present;
- Do not ask the children to choose which parent they want to spend Christmas with;
- However you might feel towards your ex, do not share your feelings with your children: children do not want to be caught in the middle;
- Enjoy the time that you spend with your children over Christmas: and do not spend your time complaining about the arrangements that have been made;
- If you are planning a trip abroad with the children remember that in most cases you will need your ex partner’s consent, try and discuss your plans well in advance.
If you need further help please contact our mediator on 01923 431601 or by email to info@evolvefamilymediation.co.uk