Co-Parenting Calm: How to Keep the Peace This Holiday Season
In a column published on 11/24 in the Daily Business Review, Family Law Attorney Rebecca Palmer highlights practical strategies for divorced and separated parents to navigate the holiday season peacefully. Palmer emphasizes the importance of putting children first during what can be an emotionally challenging time of year.“The holidays are often a time for joy, family, and togetherness, but for many divorced or separated couples, they can also bring a resurgence of tension, resentment, and logistical headaches. In fact, family law attorneys know all too well that divorce filings surge by 25%-30% every January, also known as ‘Divorce Month,’ following a holiday filled with stress, unmet expectations, and continued emotional strain,” informs Palmer.
Palmer lays out various action plans parents can take including strengthening the foundation by revisiting divorce decrees and parenting plans, communicating early and clearly with co-parents, planning ahead by setting expectations with extended family, and maintaining mental health during this demanding period. She provides detailed guidance on using court-ordered agreements as roadmaps, documenting all modifications in writing, and keeping communication factual and courteous rather than emotional.
“Divorce changes people and family dynamics forever, but try not to forget that it can also be the happiest time of the year with family and friends,” says Palmer. “After all, if you can find peace in the most emotionally charged season of the year, you’ve already proven you can handle whatever comes next.”Read the story in full; click here (subscriber-based).