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Helping Your Child Cope with the Changes
While the holidays are usually a wonderful time filled with joy, children with newly divorced parents can really find this time to be a struggle. Their family dynamic has drastically changed, and they may not know what to expect come this upcoming holiday season. As a result, they may feel uncertain, scared, and sad.
Fortunately, there are ways you can help your child cope with the holidays after a divorce.
Stay Positive Around Them
First, a positive mindset can go a long way in helping your child throughout the holidays. Remind them that though your situation may have changed and may seem filled with uncertainty, there are always reasons to be thankful, especially during this time of the year. Highlight several things that you are thankful for, and that might encourage them to do the same.
This might be difficult at times, especially if the topic of your ex-spouse comes up. However, push to stay as positive as possible for the sake of your child.
Embrace and Alter Traditions
Perhaps your child always played in the first snow of the season with your spouse or decorated the house with them. Now that things look different, your child might wonder what’s going to happen to those special moments. While it might be difficult at first, you could alter those traditions a bit so that they can still engage in them while not feeling as sad about those traditions. For example, you could play in the snow with your child or decorate certain parts of the house.
At the same time, with a change in living conditions can come brand-new opportunities to share special moments with your child. Now is a perfect time to try new things that could become a new tradition for the two of you. Try out that new cookie recipe you’ve been dying to taste, or perhaps you and your parents can take your child to see other people’s decorations.
Plan Ahead
Making memories with your child can be a great way to help them cope with their emotions throughout the holiday season. However, it can be challenging to try and come up with plans at a moment’s notice. Consider making as many plans as far in advance as possible so your child can have something to look forward to; it might be helpful to have a surprise or two, as well.
Work with an Attorney If Issues Arise
The holidays can be difficult for parents who are having a hard time seeing their children because of an obstinate spouse denying them visitation. If this is the case, you should speak with a family law attorney as soon as possible to learn what options are available to get you the time with your children that you have the right to. At Pacific Cascade Legal, our team knows how sensitive custody issues can be, but we are committed to helping you throughout each step of the process and defending your right as a parent.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation, call us at (888) 981-9511 or visit us online.
