The holidays are a stressful time with all the Christmas shopping and family visits, but it can be even more stressful if you are going through a divorce during this time. Here are eight tips on how to navigate through divorce during the holidays:

1. Figure out the parenting schedule.
Avoid unnecessary conflict by already having your parenting schedule with your ex-spouse figured out. If you need a little assistance figuring out the schedule, CustodyXChange has a great resource and tips on dividing up time between you and your former spouse fairly.

2. Keep conflict away from your children.
Depending on their age, it can be hard for your children to understand that their parents are not together anymore and possibly do not get along. Do not speak negatively of your ex-spouse in front of the kids and keep conflicts between you and your ex-spouse away from them.

3. Be respectful towards your ex-spouse.
You and your spouse will likely have to come in contact with each other during the divorce. It can be difficult, but be respectful towards them, especially if the children are watching.

4. Be honest about what is going on.
Your children will eventually realize the severity of the situation. Be honest with your children about the divorce while keeping it respectful. Be honest about how you feel but do not let your emotions affect your children.

5. Let your children feel their natural emotions.
If your children are sad about their parents’ divorce, let them be sad. Do not try to force them to be happy. They will come around in time. To ease their minds a little, partake in fun holiday activities, watch holiday movies, or create new family traditions.

6. Don’t repress your feelings.
Whether you’ve known the divorce has been coming for a while or if it seemingly came out of nowhere, it can still be hard to come to terms with what is happening. It will be much more difficult to get through the divorce if you keep your feelings locked away, so allow yourself to feel anger and sadness but do not let those emotions control you.

7. Socialize with family and friends.
Being around loved ones is necessary during a time like this. Be sure to surround yourself with people who love and support you. Those frustrations that you can’t express around the kids, you can express to a family member or friend.

8. Do something for someone else.
Get your mind off of the divorce for a bit and spread holiday cheer to someone or a family that is less fortunate. Find a way to involve your children in whatever you do, whether that is giving to your favorite charity or helping out a family that cannot afford Christmas gifts this year. You will teach your children a great lesson about helping people in their times of need while you are going through a low point yourself. 

Do not lose sight of what you are grateful for this holiday season. Divorce may seem like the end of the world for some but remind yourself that you have little ones and new experiences to live for. If you are in the Middle Tennessee area, Murfreesboro Family Law can help you navigate through your divorce. We will guide you through the legal issues related to your divorce so that you can focus on moving forward with your life. For more information on our services, contact us.