THRIVING Melanin Family Magazine November 2018 | Page 56

NAVIGATING THE HOLIDAYS
WITH YOUR CO-PARENT
Without Losing Your Cool
The Holidays are around the corner, and as
cheerful as it should be it can also bring the
worst out of parents that have to split those days
with their children.
Some parents are only focused on getting what
they want and are unable to see the big picture
like keeping their kids happy. Other parents get
anxious and overwhelmed anticipating the
arguments. Don’t forget the fact that they might
possibly be alone on those significant days.
Usually, parents have legal documents that
specify the Holidays schedule that should simplify
things. Most arrangements consist only of
technicalities like splitting days in half or
alternating days or even weeks and school
vacations. However, many important things are
still left off because of lack of communication and
compassion for each other.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed and lose track of
what’s really important: Keeping the kids happy!
You had your fair share of Thanksgiving dinners,
Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa… Your kids should
be able to celebrate theirs in peace regardless of
which parent they will be with. There’s always
next year. They just want to be happy, and get
gifts!!
You do not want your children to have to deal
with or remember dysfunctional family drama
over the Holidays. And yes it does take two but
remember if you think your CoParent is not as
reasonable as you, this is the perfect time to take
the high road. Be gracious, model compassion and
respect for your CoParent. Try to concentrate on
being proactive for your children’s and your sake.
Here are some tips to help you create a better
environment for all the family this Holiday season:
NOVEMBER
2018 • THRIVE | 54