Holidays are special days for children and can be a stressful and emotional time for parents. For these reasons, it is important to give extra thought and consideration to holidays when preparing parenting time schedules.
To schedule a free consultation, use the form below or call us at 248-705-3663.
There are many options to consider when structuring a holiday schedule. Parents may chose to alternate holidays from year to year, agreeing that the child will spend specific holidays (for example Thanksgiving) with mom during even years and with dad during odd years. Other parents may choose to establish “traditions” and agree that the child will spend certain holidays with mom and certain holidays with dad (for example, the child will spend every Christmas Eve with mom and every Christmas Day with dad). Holidays to consider may include:
In addition to the traditional legal and religious holidays, the holiday schedule should address the child’s summer, winter and spring breaks from school as well as the birthdays of the child and parents. Like a general parenting time schedule, the holiday schedule should be very specific and consider issues such as when and where the child will be exchanged, who will transport the child, and who will be responsible for the cost of transporting the child.
A mediator can help parties structure a holiday schedule that addresses these issues and best meets the needs of the child and parties without court intervention. This provides for a smooth transition and allows parties to maintain control of their future, reduce stress and best keep any holiday traditions intact.
