As I’m sure most moms can agree, there is nothing better than motherhood. The same goes for dads and how they feel about fatherhood. Our relationships with our children deserve to be celebrated every spring with Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. These holidays are so special for a parent and their children; however, when parents are separated or divorced, these celebrations may look a little different. I have a unique personal perspective as a mother who has been divorced as well as a professional outlook as a Collaborative Family Law attorney and co-parenting coach. Here are my top three tips for celebrating Mother’s Day and Father’s Day during and after divorce. 

Be Thoughtful in Planning 

As you and your parenting partner arrange weekends, align schedules with Mother’s Day and Father’s Day so your children spend it accordingly. As a mother, I always appreciated that it was a given that my children would spend Mother’s Day weekend with me. This was also the case for Father’s Day as they would always spend the weekend with their dad. 

Acknowledge Other Family Members

While your child may just have one mom or one dad, there may be others who play an important role in their lives too. This might include grandparents (on one or both sides), stepparents, or godparents. Even if they’re not on your side of the family, acknowledging these individuals and helping your child wish them a happy Mother’s Day or Father’s Day can be really meaningful for not only this special person but also for your child.

Help Your Children with Gifting

If your children are young and unable to put together a gift for their other parent ahead of Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, lend them a hand. This could be helping them make a homemade card or craft, or maybe footing the bill for a gift they’d like to purchase. If your children are a bit older but not yet driving, perhaps you can take them shopping to pick something out in their budget.

These actions will not only show your children that you respect their other parent and family members, but will also demonstrate kindness and thoughtfulness – behaviors that are best learned by example. 

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We’re Here to Help

ROAD to RESOLUTION can help you effectively navigate your co-parenting journey. Our legal team can provide co-parenting guidance before, during, and after divorce. Please give us a call at (980) 260-1600 and we can discuss your legal options through divorce mediation and collaborative family law. Our Charlotte-based team is here to help you and your family in the Lake Norman area and beyond.

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Note: This article is intended to be informational only and shall not be construed as legal advice. 

If you’re a separated or divorced parent, I know how difficult it can be – especially when it comes to successfully, and respectfully, co-parenting with your former partner. In addition to being a Collaborative Divorce attorney, I also have personal experience as a mother of five with two separate parenting agreements. My ex and I divorced nearly 15 years ago and we experienced the ups and downs of co-parenting our two children. When I married my now husband, who has three boys, we learned to navigate and balance both parenting agreements with all of our children.

The holiday season is upon us and for many that also means it’s time for meaningful family traditions and sentimental decorations. While this time of year is often one of the merriest, it can also be one of the hardest for families who are impacted by separation or divorce. I’m a certified mediator and family law attorney who has a unique personal perspective when it comes to divorce during the holidays.

A healthy relationship between parents is the ultimate example for children and a template for their future relationships. Even in cases of separation or divorce, a positive and healthy co-parenting partnership will help to shape how children adapt to their own relationships and friendships. This is especially true when it comes to raising empowered daughters. One of the greatest joys in my life has been the relationship that I have with my daughter, who is now in her 20s.