Making the Holidays Work : Co-Parenting Tips for December

The holiday season is a special time for families, filled with celebrations, traditions, and cherished moments. For separated or divorced parents, December can also bring stress and logistical challenges. Coordinating schedules for Christmas and New Year, balancing extended family expectations, and maintaining children’s routines may feel overwhelming.

At North Bay Family Law, we understand how important it is for both parents and children to enjoy the holidays peacefully. With careful planning, clear communication, and a focus on your children’s needs, you can make the holiday season positive and joyful.

Here are our top eight co-parenting tips to make December smoother for everyone:

1. Plan Early

Avoid last-minute conflicts by discussing holiday schedules well in advance. Review your parenting plan or custody order and confirm who will spend time with the children. Early planning reduces stress and helps children feel secure.

2. Prioritize Kids

Keep your children’s happiness and emotional well-being at the center of every decision. Focus on creating joyful holiday memories rather than personal frustrations. Children thrive when parents cooperate respectfully.

3. Stay Flexible

Even the best-laid plans can change—travel delays, family events running late, or unexpected illness may occur. Approach these situations with patience and understanding, adapting plans to maintain peace.

4. Avoid Conflict

Never argue in front of the children. Handle disagreements calmly and privately. Demonstrating respectful communication protects children’s emotional well-being and allows them to enjoy the holidays.

5. Embrace Traditions

Rather than competing to make the holidays perfect, focus on meaningful traditions your children will cherish. Family meals, holiday crafts, or volunteering together can create lasting positive memories.

6. Encourage Connection

If safe and appropriate, allow children to connect with the other parent through calls, video chats, or brief visits. These interactions help children feel secure, loved, and emotionally supported.

7. Take Care of Yourself

Co-parenting during the holidays can be emotionally draining. Make time for your own self-care, whether through relaxing, socializing, or pursuing hobbies. A calm parent contributes to a calmer household.

8. Create New Experiences

Holidays may look different each year. Introduce new family activities, recipes, or ways of celebrating. Fresh experiences can bring joy, comfort, and strengthen family bonds despite changes.

The holiday season should be a time of joy, connection, and cherished memories for children. By planning ahead, focusing on their needs, remaining flexible, and keeping conflicts away, you can create a peaceful, meaningful holiday season for your family.

At North Bay Family Law, we’re here to guide and support you through co-parenting challenges, helping you make the holidays—and every day—better for your children.

Quick Tips Summary for Co-Parenting During December

1. Plan Early: Discuss and finalize holiday schedules ahead of time to prevent confusion and conflicts.

2. Prioritize Kids: Keep children’s happiness and routines at the center of all decisions.

3. Stay Flexible: Be ready for unexpected changes and adjust plans calmly.

4. Avoid Conflict: Handle disagreements privately and model respectful communication.

5. Embrace Traditions: Focus on meaningful family activities rather than competing to impress.

6. Encourage Connection: Facilitate safe interactions with the other parent to strengthen bonds.

7. Take Care of Yourself: Maintain your own well-being to support a calm household.

8. Create New Experiences: Introduce fresh activities and traditions for joy and comfort.