How to Celebrate Thanksgiving After Divorce

 Posted on November 16, 2018 in Divorce

Thanksgiving starts the holiday season that recently divorced couples sometimes dread. When children are involved, holidays like Thanksgiving that are family based often get complicated. While your parenting plan likely covers holidays and other special dates, that does not mean it will be an easy time emotionally. 

Cooking for a large group of people is intimidating enough. Here are some tips for surviving your first Thanksgiving after a divorce:

Always Put Children First

If you feel a little awkward this time of year because of your altered family situation, imagine what your kids feel. They may still be upset about the divorce. Ask them what they think, and try to reassure them about the holidays. Tell them their feelings are okay, do not speak poorly of the other parent, and try to put a positive spin on the situation. Divorced parents might mean two Thanksgivings for them, and twice the pie. No matter how they feel, let them know you are listening. 

Be Thankful

While there might be some residual sadness, this time of year should remind you to be thankful for what you have. Even if you and your ex are no longer together, be thankful for the time you had and the wonderful children who came out of your marriage. It is fine to be sad about the past, but do not let your children see it, and remember you still have plenty to look forward to, even if it is just a little different than in previous years. 

Holiday Traditions

Maintaining some traditions will help make Thanksgiving feel normal. Continue to make pies and any special dishes your kids really like, watch football, or go see a movie together. While it might be too early in the divorce recovery process to do so this year, in future years, you and your ex might be able to do Thanksgiving together, even with new spouses or significant others are involved. Doing that can show your kids just how much co-parenting after divorce means to you.

Contact a Schaumburg Divorce Attorney

Your biggest concern during Thanksgiving should be how many pounds of turkey you need to feed your troops. If your parenting plan needs to change due to new circumstances, speak to an experienced Barrington divorce lawyer at A. Traub & Associates Call 630-426-0196 to set up an initial consultation.

Source:

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/roz-warren/thanksgiving-and-divorce_b_4240449.html