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Article by: Karen Dorsey
As we’re transitioning into the fall season, how are you doing with navigating school schedules – online learning, hybrid programs and in-person learning? It can be so overwhelming and co-parenting can be challenging because things can change in a minute!
And now is the time that you and your co-parent need to begin talking about school breaks and the holidays.
You’ve probably felt a need for flexibility with your parenting plan during the pandemic and now you may have to be even more flexible with co-parenting during school breaks and the holidays. With having to consider your children’s exposure to family and friends during the holidays, additionally communication may be at the forefront of your conversations with your co-parent. Here are three things you may need to consider:
1. Visitations
Visitation with extended family members could be a concern. Consideration may need to be made about location, number of people in attendance, and amount of space at holiday events may require additional communication with your co-parent.
2. Time With Loved Ones
If children are not able to spend time with loved ones during the holidays, planning another specific time in the future with this person may help to preserve the relationship for your child.
3. Scheduling
The ability for children to do some schooling online may actually give co-parents a new opportunity to create a schedule that gives more flexibility during school breaks and holidays.
Holiday Challenges
Regardless of the challenges you and your co-parent are facing this year, try to keep in mind that this is not always the way things will be during the holidays.
There is no magical way to deal with the challenges we’re facing during this pandemic. Always keep in mind what is in the best interest of your children. The holidays can be stressful even when everything is “normal.” It may not be exactly what you’re hoping for, but consider this as an opportunity to create some new traditions for you and your family. Create a plan and always have a backup plan as well.
Karen Dorsey, M.Ed., CDC Certified Divorce Coach®, Divorce Mediator
Karen is a Divorce Coach, Co-Parenting Coach, and Divorce Mediator at Smarter Divorce Solutions in Phoenix, AZ.
As part of the Mediation Plus® team, Karen is dedicated to providing
clients with a kinder, gentler approach to divorce.
As a Divorce Coach and Co-Parenting Coach, Karen helps her clients navigate through the divorce process with less stress and more confidence so they know they’re making the best decisions for themselves and their family.
Karen is also the Divorce Coach for the Vesta Divorce Hub in Scottsdale, AZ which supports individuals by providing access to advice, professional counseling, and a community of support.
SmarterDivorceSolutions.com
VestaDivorce.com
* Previously published at: https://smarterdivorcesolutions.com/how-to-co-parent-this-holiday-season-during-the-pandemic/
