Thanksgiving can be a wonderful time full of home-cooked meals and warm family reunions. However, if you’re going through the early stages of a divorce or separation — especially if child custody negotiations are involved — Thanksgiving can also be emotionally and logistically challenging. Our experienced Fairfax divorce lawyers offer insights on some common challenges and how to manage them.
1. Deciding Where the Kids Will Spend Thanksgiving
One of the biggest challenges is figuring out where the children will spend Thanksgiving. Will they celebrate with your extended family or your spouse’s? Can you arrange the schedule so they attend both celebrations? Or should you split the holidays — perhaps one family gets the children for Thanksgiving and the other for Christmas?
Debates over holiday timesharing can be difficult because they involve not only the desires of parents and children but also those of extended family members.
2. Coping with the Emotional Impact of a Divided Family
Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for families to come together and put aside differences. It can be hard to celebrate when your family feels fractured. You might find yourself missing the intact family dynamic or struggling with feelings of loneliness and vulnerability.
3. Dealing with Intrusive or Insensitive Questions
Family gatherings during the holidays can lead to intrusive questions or unsolicited advice about your divorce. A relative might make an insensitive comment, or a well-meaning family member could press you into a conversation about your child custody situation or the divorce itself. These interactions can be stressful, especially when you’re already navigating a difficult time.
How to Prepare and Make the Best of Thanksgiving
Here are some tips to make the holiday more manageable:
- Plan ahead: Work with your spouse to establish a clear schedule for the holidays to minimize last-minute conflicts.
- Set boundaries: Be prepared to set limits if family members bring up sensitive topics. It’s okay to let them know you’d rather not discuss the divorce over the holiday.
- Focus on the positives: Thanksgiving is still an opportunity to create new traditions and enjoy time with your children and family. Concentrate on making the best of the day and enjoying moments of peace.
If you need more personalized guidance for managing family dynamics during the holidays, the Fairfax Virginia divorce lawyers at DiPietro Family Law Group, PLLC, are here to help. We can offer strategies to help you navigate your case and relieve stress during this challenging time.
Call us at (888) 530-4374 to schedule your consultation.
