6 Tips for Surviving the Holidays During Divorce

Going through divorce during holidays? Many of our clients experience sadness during their first holiday when they are going through a divorce.  Here are SIX TIPS to help you through…

TIP #1 CREATE A NEW FAMILY TRADITION Have you always wanted a live Christmas Tree?  Did you want to have a movie marathon, but you had to go to your in-laws?  Now is time to start brand new traditions and build memories with your kids.

TIP #2 MAKE A SCHEDULE Consult your Parenting Plan in advance and figure out which days are yours and which ones belong to the other parent.  If there is any confusion, work it out as soon as possible (and with out involving the children).

TIP #3 REMEMBER YOUR CHILD’S BEST INTEREST Did something come up last minute that your child would enjoy with the other parent?  Be flexible.  Flexibility lowers stress for everyone.  If you need to switch a few days around to accommodate Holiday plans, try to remember the best interest of the child.

TIP #4 TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF  If you are feeling down, rely on supportive friends and family.  Don’t sit home alone feeling isolated.  If you need to talk to someone professionally, don’t be afraid to make an appointment with your local pastor or therapist.

TIP #5 TAKE A VACATION If this is not your year to have the children, go on a trip.  Visit family that you normally didn’t see during the holidays or go to the beach.  Give yourself a break and you may come back well rested and ready to take on single parenting in the new year,

TIP #6 BE REALISTIC The “perfect holiday” is an illusion.  Don’t compare your real life with everyone else’s “social media perfection.”  You are building new traditions and spending part of the holiday away from your children for the first time.  That can bring challenges, but you will make it through.

Getting divorced with children?  You need the Tennessee Parenting Class!

The mandatory divorcing parent education class is offered several times a month in two locations. Also, we offer the parenting class at least one Sunday each month. Additionally, we have FREE parking! For more information, Click HERE