Wondering how to cope with divorce during Father’s Day? Here’s some advice.
The way we celebrate holidays is important, especially for children following divorce. With Father’s Day just around the corner, you might be wondering how to make the holiday less emotionally challenging for your child. In the first few years after the divorce, fathers have to adapt to their new situation, putting the needs of their child before their own, even on a day that is reserved for them. For mothers, it can be difficult to feel good about celebrating a former spouse, especially if they still have negative feelings.
But Father’s Day is an opportunity for both parents to come together for the kids. If you are anxious about how Father’s Day is going to go this year, here are some ways to make it a good day for your child.
How to Cope with Divorce on Father’s Day Tip #1: Encourage Father-Child Time
Far too often, one parent makes plans on Father’s Day that do not encourage father-child time. For instance, a mother might allow the father to spend a few hours with the child during the day but say that they need the child back at a certain time because they have other plans. Of course, this applies to Mother’s Day, as well.
Father’s Day Tip #2: Set Aside Father’s Day and Mother’s Day for Each Parent to Avoid Conflict
Making allowances in the parenting plan for Father’s Day and Mother’s Day not only encourages a healthy relationship between the child and both parents, it also helps divorced parents avoid conflict. When conflict comes up, the consequences on the child’s mental health can be more severe than expected.
Father’s Day Tip #3: Reassure Your Child to Reduce Stress
One of the primary reasons that divorce can be difficult for children and affect them as they grow into adults is the stress associated with it. Learning how to cope with divorce is largely a stress-management issue. Many different triggers can lead to stress for your child, including arguments, talking poorly of the other parent in front of them, and shaming them for or otherwise discouraging them from having a relationship with their other parent.
Parenting after divorce can be tough, but it’s up to you to be the best parent for your child, regardless of whether your ex-spouse shares your commitment. This Father’s Day, try the above tips to see if they help you.
Need Help Coming to an Agreement with Your Ex-Spouse?
Sometimes agreeing with an ex-spouse can seem nearly impossible. If you and your child’s other parent can’t agree about your parenting plan, get in touch with me. I can assist you as a mediator or as your legal counsel.
About the Author: Helena Y. Farber is an attorney in Aventura, Florida, whose practice is concentrated in the areas of divorce and family law. She can be reached at (305) 520-9205 or via email at hyf@farberlawpa.com.
Disclaimer: The attorney makes this Blog available for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide specific legal advice. By using this blog site, you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and the Blog. The Blog should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state.