Staying Bright Amidst Many Changes
The holiday season’s emphasis on gatherings, gifts, and family and friends can be rather difficult for people who have recently gone through a divorce. Their children, however, may struggle even more than the adults, and in a season that highlights the wonder children can have in presents, that struggle can be tragic to witness.
Know, however, that you do not have to watch your child struggle throughout the season. You can take steps to help them cope with their feelings while allowing them to have a happier season.
Focus on Your Child’s Happiness
First and foremost, it can be easy to focus on your own wellbeing and experience during the holiday season; however, it’s more important to do whatever you can to help your child cope during this time. Your primary focus during this season should be to do whatever it takes to meet your child’s needs, whether they be physical, mental, or emotional. The efforts you take now can not only help your child but can also teach them about healthy coping mechanisms they can use in the future.
Edit Older Traditions
When you were still married, there may have been several traditions your family held you would engage in each year. Now that your family situation has changed, your child may still long to participate in those activities again. Though they may look different on the surface, you have the option of altering those old traditions into something you can maintain on an annual basis.
Create New Memories
At the same time, the changes to your family life bring out a unique opportunity to create new traditions unique to your new situation. Trying new things, while maybe a tad scary, allows you the chance to create new memories that will remain with you and your child forever.
Stay Positive
Though this time of year may be difficult for you, it’s important to stay as positive as you can and to try and avoid letting any negative emotions display in front of your child. Both positivity and negativity are contagious; which would you rather share with your child?
Do You Have Visitation Issues During the Holidays?
The holiday season, as wonderful as it can be, can be a time of year where parents have a hard time seeing their children or are denied regular visitation rights. When these situations occur, it’s important to work with a family law attorney who can guide you on how best to move forward. The team at The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC understands the importance of holiday visitation; we will work tirelessly to protect your right to be a parent.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation, call us at (210) 702-2203 or visit us online.
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