A comprehensive parenting plan will likely include numerous contingencies and important factors. From determining how punishments will be handled across both households to planning where the child stays over various school breaks, the parenting plan becomes the document that can help avoid future disputes. Unfortunately, there are certain holidays that might not be addressed when negotiating the plan.
Some examples of special holidays to consider in a parenting plan can include:
- Birthdays: From the child’s birthday to the birthdays of each parent, it is wise to discuss these days in advance so issues can be resolved. Most often, a problem arises when the birthday falls during one parent’s scheduled time with the child, but the other parent would like to spend time with him or her. It is important to have a plan in place.
- Long weekends: Whether it is because of a school holiday for the child or a work holiday for the parent, it is important to discuss 3-day weekends in the parenting plan. Weekends like Memorial Day might fall during the school year and Independence Day will fall during the summer, but it is wise to discuss how these long weekends should be handled.
- Mother’s Day and Father’s Day: It is common for the child to spend these days with the appropriate parent; however, the scheduling might run contrary to the regular parenting time calendar. It is important to consider these slight aberrations so there are no surprise arguments when time is a factor.
It is wise to work with an experienced family law attorney from start to finish in your divorce. Even if the relationship is ending amicably, there are numerous compromises that must be reached. With the proper guidance and insight, you can avoid arguments in the present and emotional disputes in the future.
