Divorce can sometimes be uncomfortable for parents and children involved, but that discomfort can be magnified during holidays and special occasions.
Families develop routines and traditions that are synonymous with special days or celebrations and when the family dissolves, many do not know how to handle days like Christmas, Thanksgiving or birthdays.
It can also be especially troublesome if you have custody of the children during these times and do not know how best to handle it.
Family and holidays have always gone together and it can feel unpleasant when a family is recently broken up and experiencing its first special occasion in two separate homes.
Along with the normal stress of holiday activities, divorced couples also have to balance when and where they can see their kids and for how long.
Making the Transition Easier There is no definitive way to make divorce a less-painful process but there are ways parents can help.
Some strategies recommended by professionals for smoother holidays are:

• Simplify holidays by eliminating excess cooking, cleaning or decorating.
  And don't be afraid to ask for help from family and friends.
  
• Be open and honest with your children about your and their feelings.
  Let them know it's okay to share positive and negative feelings.
  
• Arrange meetings and contact with non-custodial parents so children feel like they are still part of their lives.
  
• Talk about either alternating or splitting holidays with each parent and make a schedule.
  

There are many other ways families can handle scheduling or events during the holidays.
Make sure to think about the wellbeing of your kids to make the holidays easier for them.