Co-Parenting Over The Festive Period

We know that the festive period can be difficult when parents live apart – it can be a lonely time for divorced or separated parents as well as grandparents and wider family members.  We have issued our suggestions on how to best co-parent over Christmas, as well as tips on looking after yourself in the video below – please share it as widely as possible to get the message across to as many families as possible.

Additionally, there is also a great article in the Herald about how to avoid Christmas pain over shared child contact that is worth reading

Although our helpline on 0131 557 2440 will close on Thursday December 21st and reopen on January 8th, 2024, we will continue to monitor voicemails and emails and a staff member will respond to these messages over the holiday period. Our WhatsApp groups will continue during the holiday period for parents to post messages and share experiences.

The first group meetings in 2024 will be the Edinburgh and Stirling meetings taking place on the 9th January 2024 at 10 Palmerston Place, Edinburgh and the Family Life Centre, Stirling, both from 7-9pm.

Seasonal greetings to everybody and let’s work together to promote shared parenting in 2024.

Tips for co-parenting over Christmas

1. Remember to put the children first

Even though you are missing them don’t put your distress ahead of their enjoyment. Christmas Day may not carry the wider significance to them as it does to you. Encourage them to look forward to the next time they’re with you when you can have your own celebration.

2. Arrange a time for a phone or video call 

If you are with your children over Christmas, arrange with your co-parent a time to have a phone or video call with them. This is best done later on in the day when they’re not as excited. Make these arrangements ahead of time, the earlier the better. You can then focus on giving them a Christmas with you the next time you see them.

3. Don’t compete on presents

Competing on Christmas presents doesn’t do anyone any good. Attempting to outspend everyone will create unwanted pressure on everyone, especially if money is tight. Remember that your children will remember and cherish the time that they spend with you, and this is what is important.

4. Write a letter or message for your child if you don’t have contact

If you have no contact with your children, write them a card or message and keep in a box of memories that they may see someday.

5. Look after yourself

Make sure to look after yourself as well over the festive period. Make plans to see friends, or volunteer to help others.

4. Write a letter or message for your child if you don’t have contact

If you have no contact with your children, write them a card or message and keep in a box of memories that they may see someday.

If you can, co-parent this Christmas – your children deserve the best of both of you.