This Easter, Resurrect Your Family

Soon, Christians around the world will celebrate Easter.  It is a time of reflection.  It is a time of restoration.  It is a time of resurrection.  During this season, we can learn something important about child custody.  Even after a divorce or separation, your children make you a family.  Now is as good a time as any to practice rebuilding that unit.

​Holidays are a particularly difficult time for most fractured families to get through.  Often, without a custody agreement, the parents fight over where the children should be on a holiday.  If this is you, it doesn't have to be that way.

First, always approach custody negotiations well in advance of the event.  Not only does it give the other parent a chance to think through things, it gives you a chance to seek mediation or court intervention if an agreement can't be made.

Next,  have an open mind.  While it is tempting to grab all of the important holidays for yourself, think outside the box.  Your ex may be desperate for this Easter because an important family member is visiting.  Giving in on this point may mean that you get first choice for summer vacation.

Consider sharing or splitting.  Every holiday does not have to be an either/or event.  You can consider going to church together or letting one parent have the morning while the other has the afternoon and dinner.  Creativity is a must.

Finally, remember that your child is always the heart of the family.  That means that you should consider the children before considering your own wants.  Remember, if you can't figure it out, the court is there to help make decisions.  A good lawyer will have many options and ideas available to help you make a smart plan.

There is no reason that your family has to suffer.  Resurrecting your family unit doesn't mean it will be the same as it used to be, but it can still be a positive experience for your children.