Even in families where the parents are married, the holiday season can be one of the most stressful times of the year for Wisconsin. Throw in a divorce, especially a recent one, and the stress levels can rise quickly. Many people with young children may be especially concerned about how to balance time with their kids when traditions will naturally change. If you are in this situation, it is good for you to know that there are things you may do to simplify things for you and your children.
One of the things that Psychology Today recommends is outlining the various traditions you and your children have typically enjoyed together during the holidays. From there, be realistic about identifying which ones you can and want to continue. You and your former spouse might also team up to determine if some traditions will be carried through at both homes or if you will manage some while your ex will manage others.
Once you have done this, you may want to take the opportunity to define some new traditions for you and your kids. Depending upon the ages of your children, you might even engage them in the process of creating these new traditions. A helpful thought here is that traditions need not always be grandiose as sometimes the simplest thing like enjoying a favorite seasonal movie together may provide some of the best time for you and your kids together.
If you would like to learn more about how you can find guidance on co-parenting with your former spouse, especially during the holidays, please feel free to visit the post-divorce parenting page of our Wisconsin divorce and family law website.
