Co-Parenting Tips During the Holiday Season

The holidays are meant to bring joy, but for divorced or separated parents, this time of year can feel complicated. Who gets which days? How do you balance traditions, travel, and new relationships? If you’re co-parenting in Indianapolis and surrounding counties - Hancock, Hamilton, Hendricks, Boone, Johnson, Shelby - the holidays can be smoother when you approach them with planning, flexibility, and respect.

At Lacy Law Office, our Indianapolis family law attorneys have helped many parents navigate this exact challenge. Here’s how to make the season easier for everyone—especially your children.

Communicate Early and Clearly

Strong communication sets the tone for a peaceful holiday. The more you talk ahead of time, the less confusion or conflict you’ll face later.

• Plan Early: Start discussing schedules well before Thanksgiving or winter break to avoid last-minute disagreements.
• Keep It About the Kids: Focus on what will make your children feel comfortable and cared for—not what feels “fair.”
• Use Shared Tools: Try apps or calendars designed for co-parenting to track holiday plans, school events, and travel times.

Create a Thoughtful Holiday Schedule

A clear plan helps reduce stress for both parents and kids. When making arrangements, think about what will give your children the best holiday experience.

• Alternate Holidays: Many parents rotate major holidays each year to keep things balanced.
• Split the Day: If travel distances allow, consider dividing the day so your children can spend time with both parents.
• Include Family on Both Sides: If your children are close to grandparents, cousins, or extended family, make time for those relationships too.

Stay Flexible When Plans Change

Even the best plans can run into hiccups: weather delays, illness, or unexpected travel. Flexibility keeps things peaceful.

• Stay Open-Minded: Approach last-minute changes with understanding instead of frustration.
• Have a Backup Plan: Agree on how to handle unexpected events ahead of time.
• Keep It Calm: If plans need to shift, reassure your children that the holidays will still be special.

Know the Legal Basics in Indiana

Following your custody order is especially important during the holidays. Indiana parenting plans often include detailed provisions about holiday time.

• Stick to Court Orders: Follow what’s already outlined unless both parents agree otherwise.
• Update When Needed: If your current schedule no longer fits your family’s needs, an attorney can help modify the agreement.
• Seek Legal Support Early: A family law attorney can clarify your rights and help prevent disputes before they arise.

Keep the Focus on Your Children

The most important thing you can give your children is stability. No matter how you divide the holidays, your attitude sets the tone.

• Build New Traditions: Create meaningful moments in each home—whether it’s decorating cookies, volunteering, or watching a favorite movie.
• Stay Positive: Speak kindly about your co-parent and encourage your children to enjoy their time with both families.
• Reassure Them: Remind your kids they’re loved and that the holidays are still about family, joy, and togetherness.

Work with Indianapolis Family Law Attorneys Who Understand Co-Parenting

At Lacy Law Office, we know that co-parenting takes patience, communication, and sometimes, legal clarity. Whether you need help adjusting a parenting plan or resolving holiday conflicts, our attorneys are here to support you with compassion and experience.

‍Contact Lacy Law Office today to speak with one of our Indianapolis family law attorneys. We’ll help you protect your parenting rights and make this holiday season brighter for you and your children.