Thriving Through the Tinsel: 7 Ways Divorced Parents Can Make Holidays Special for Their Children

Holidays can be tough when you are divorced, but coming up with a strategy to enjoy them is possible! I am discussing 7 things you can do to help your children and yourself navigate the holidays. From creating new traditions, to having expectations around finances, and even dealing with high conflict parenting situations, I have some wonderful ideas throughout this episode. Tune in to learn more ways to make your holiday special after divorce. 

In this episode:

  • [2:48] How do kids feel during the holidays when their parents are divorced and how can you support them with those feelings?
  • [7:59] 7 things you can do to help your children through the holidays.
  • [14:01] How to manage the holidays if you are in a high-conflict parenting situation.


Key Takeaways: 

  • [9:02] Discuss the holiday schedule with your children so they are not left wondering what the time out of school might look like. Provide them with clarity of how the schedule will look, and answer any questions they may have. 
  • [10:52] Find some new traditions you can start with your children. There may be opportunities to do activities that weren’t an option while you were married. Quality time with your kids is what matters most to them. 
  • [13:22] Prioritize your own self care. Have empathy with yourself and make sure that you are taking care of yourself so you can take care of your children well. 


Quotes: 

“I know there's lots of tricky things involved, but you can set the tone for a positive experience. So the greatest thing that you can do is to be united with the other co-parent and work together and let the kids see that you are working together.” - Lesa Koski


“My childhood memories of Christmas, I think the best ones are when we did something. I don't remember the gifts that I got, but I remember the time that we spent together. So remember that your kids just need time with you as simple as going sledding down a hill and getting hot cocoa.” - Lesa Koski


“You need to take care of yourself so that you can take care of your children well. They need you more than anything. So make sure that you're in a good spot, you're doing the things to get your mind right so that you don't have to be stressed out and be easy on yourself. If you are struggling to have empathy, it is a tough time of year, but you can help your children thrive through the holidays.” - Lesa Koski


Resources: 

A Kid With Two Homes Instagram

Lesa Koski Website

Lesa’s Online Courses

Lesa’s Masterclass


To receive real-time alerts that your child is safe, visit https://www.soberlink.com/partners/different


I am so honored to introduce my FREE Co-Parenting Masterclass. This masterclass shares tools to co-parent well even with a difficult co-parent. You will learn the 5 C's of a Co-Parenting Plan and a free bonus resource with Certified Divorce Lending Specialist, Tami Wollensak, sharing what you want to consider regarding the family home. Sign up to receive a video replay at