Christmas can be a busy and emotional time, but for those considering separation or experiencing their first Christmas after separation, it can be extremely challenging.

Here are our top tips for surviving the silly season after separation:

1. Quality time: Ensure that both parents spend meaningful time with the children over Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Typically this time can be divided between parents, and then alternated each year to ensure that both parents get the chance to be with the children either on the morning of Christmas, or to celebrate with extended family during the course of the day. If you are residing in separate states, arranging flights can be difficult so it is important to agree upon arrangements early. Typically, those families can create two separate family celebrations for Christmas either before or after the festive season.
2. Aim for flexibility: Whilst some holiday family traditions may be able to be maintained, some may need to be adjusted. Reach out to your family and friends to seek their support and ask for flexibility, as this may make the world of difference, particularly if it is your first Christmas after separation.
3. Plan something fun: Plan a holiday for you and the children that you will all remember. Most families are able to divide the long summer holiday period equally and this allows for some quality holiday time for everyone.
4. Avoid conflict: Do your best to avoid conflict where you can. Try and confirm arrangements well in advance and consider sharing a calendar to confirm those arrangements. Using a parenting app, such as Our Family Wizard, or App Close, can assist with those communications remaining child focused and positive.
5. Avoid the Christmas rush: If you have unresolved family law matters, consider whether they need to be finalised before Christmas, or whether they can wait until early next year.

If you need legal advice or the assistance of the Federal Circuit & Family Court of Australia during the festive season, take note of when the Court will be available – typically the court is only unavailable on public holidays. Members of our team are working through the holiday period, and are available to assist as needed.