How Should I Split Holidays in a Parenting Time Plan?

How Should I Split Holidays in a Parenting Time Plan?

The holidays are supposed to be an enjoyable time for families, but for parents dealing with custody arrangements, they can quickly become more distressing than exciting. You want to make the season special for your kids, but balancing schedules and expectations can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, with a thoughtful plan made in advance, you can create a holiday schedule that works for everyone.

At Iafrate & Salassa, P.C., we recognize the significance of families being together during the holidays. Our experienced team can provide the personal guidance you need to create a holiday parenting time plan that works for your family.

Creating a Comprehensive Holiday List

Start by making a complete list of all holidays that matter to your family. This should include major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, but don’t stop there.

Consider religious holidays that are important to your faith. Think about cultural celebrations that hold meaning for your family traditions. Include school breaks like spring break and winter break.

Some parents initially overlook holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, or even birthdays. Writing everything down and including it as part of your parenting plan from the start prevents future disagreements and ensures both parents get meaningful time with the children.

Alternating Holidays

A common approach involves alternating major holidays each year. For example:

• Parent A gets Thanksgiving in even-numbered years, Parent B gets it in odd-numbered years
• Parent B gets Christmas in even-numbered years, Parent A gets it in odd-numbered years

This method ensures both parents experience important holidays with their children. It also provides predictability, making it easier for extended family to plan gatherings.

Splitting Holiday Time

Sometimes alternating entire holidays isn’t practical. Instead, you can divide holiday breaks into segments.

A popular approach splits Christmas break in half: one parent might get Christmas Eve, while the other parent gets Christmas Day. Spring break can be divided similarly, with each parent getting half of the time. This approach works especially well for longer school breaks.

Being Specific in the Agreement

Vague language can quickly lead to conflicts. Your holiday schedule agreement should include:

• Exact pickup and drop-off times
• Which parent handles transportation
• How to handle holidays that fall on weekdays
• What happens when holidays conflict with regular parenting time

Document everything in writing and include it in your court order. Then, once established, stick to your holiday schedule. Even if the holiday falls during the other parent’s regular parenting time, the holiday schedule typically prevails.

You Can Still Build Holiday Memories That Last

Creating an effective holiday parenting time plan requires clear communication, detailed documentation, and a willingness to be flexible when life circumstances change. Remember that your children’s best interests should guide every decision.

The experienced family law lawyers at Iafrate & Salassa, P.C. understand the complexities of holiday parenting schedules. With over 50 years of combined experience serving the Metro Detroit area, we provide cost-effective, results-oriented representation that puts your family first.

Need help creating a holiday plan that works? Contact Iafrate & Salassa, P.C. today to discuss your parenting time needs and keep your children’s best interests at the heart of the holidays.