Ready or not, the holiday season is just around the corner. This time of the year can be especially hard if you or someone you know has recently been separated or divorced. With so many activities, obligations, and expectations this time of year, juggling a co-parenting schedule on top of everything else can be especially tough. But, we're here to help.
The good news is that now is the right time to be planning for the holiday season. In my webinar, I shared tips and strategies you can use to give your kids the happy holidays they deserve – while staying sane in the process. More specifically, I addressed:
- How to negotiate a joint holiday custody schedule. (And what to do if negotiation doesn't work.)
- Implementing and coordinating your agreed-upon schedule, and how to shift course when life gets in the way.
- Executing your co-parenting plan while keeping your kids in the loop and part of the process. And a few tips on how you can cope when the kids are with your ex.
I hope you enjoy this webinar. It's full of actionable advice you can implement right away. And if you know someone going through separation or divorce, I hope you'll share this webinar with them, too.
FAQs
Why is a holiday co-parenting plan important?
A clear plan helps reduce stress, prevent last-minute conflict, and ensure kids know what to expect. It allows both parents to enjoy meaningful time without confusion or resentment.
When should parents start planning for the holidays?
Ideally, start discussing holiday schedules 6–8 weeks in advance. The earlier you plan, the more options you have for travel, school breaks, and fair time sharing.
What should be included in a holiday parenting plan?
Include dates, pick-up and drop-off times, travel plans, gift expectations, and how you’ll handle extended family events or new partners. The more specific, the better.
How can parents make holidays feel special for kids in two homes?
Keep familiar traditions while creating new ones unique to each home. Focus on time together rather than competing over gifts or experiences.
What if one parent doesn’t follow the agreed holiday schedule?
Document missed time calmly, avoid public arguments, and address it through written communication or mediation later. Keeping composure models maturity for your child and strengthens your legal position.
Step-by-Step: How to Create a Holiday Co-Parenting Action Plan
Review your existing parenting plan
Check whether your agreement already outlines holiday schedules. Clarify any vague or outdated language before conflict arises.
List all upcoming holidays and school breaks
Map out key dates for the next six months so both parents can see potential overlaps or travel needs early.
Decide on a rotation or split
Choose whether to alternate holidays each year, split the day, or celebrate on different dates. Keep the focus on the child’s comfort, not convenience.
Communicate early and clearly
Send your proposed plan in writing, confirm pick-up and drop-off details, and keep messages businesslike and short.
Plan for flexibility
Build in buffer time for travel or last-minute changes. Avoid rigid rules that create unnecessary tension.
Keep your child’s experience front and center
Prioritize joy, connection, and stability over equal time. Kids remember laughter, not the clock.
Document your agreement
Save your final plan in writing, signed or confirmed by both parents. Add it to your shared calendar to avoid confusion later.
