Keep Child’s Best Interests in Mind During Child Custody Disputes

While many families in Michigan eagerly embrace the opportunity to spend time with one another during the holidays, those who have gone through divorce may feel stressed and not view the holidays as a joyous occasion. The holidays can turn into a battle between two divorced parents over who will get to see the children. A few tips may help divorcing individuals dealing with child custody disputes to move toward more peaceful holiday seasons.

First, it is wise to make sure that one’s schedule regarding parenting time during the holidays is figured out way in advance. In this way, both parents know what to expect, and the kids don’t have to worry about being caught in the middle of a bitter battle. If conflict arises when both parents are trying to figure out the holiday schedule, it’s best to keep the kids out of the conflict.

It is important to remember that the kids have the right to enjoy moments with both of their parents when the holidays arrive. As a result, it is wise to be respectful to one’s ex-spouse during this time. It furthermore is essential to remain aware of one’s own feelings, including feelings of loss, anger or sadness. Modeling to the kids that life post-divorce can still be joyful despite the emotional challenges that divorce brings gives the kids permission to be joyful and celebrate the holidays as well.

Although divorce can be tough emotionally on the entire family, approaching matters such as child custody from a logical standpoint may increase a person’s chances of experiencing as positive an outcome as possible, considering the circumstances. The parents may try to come up with a mutually beneficial parenting plan that will reflect both of their desires. It is within the right of both parents to seek their best interests while most importantly focusing on the best interests of the children in Michigan.

Source: The Huffington Post, “15 Tips for Managing a Divorce Over Christmas“, Alyson Jones, Dec. 11, 2014