Welcome to A Year in a Day. I'm Jaime Davis, Board Certified Family Law Attorney at Gailor Hunt. On this show, I talk with lawyers, psychologists, and other experts with the goal of helping you navigate divorce without destruction.

In this episode, I'm joined by my law partner and fellow family law attorney, Melissa Essick, to discuss practical tips and suggestions for creating a holiday custody schedule that works best for your family during separation and divorce.

Melissa and I explore the holidays most often included in agreements—from Christmas and Thanksgiving to birthdays and spring break—and break down the three main scheduling approaches: rotating, fixed, and shared/split days. We offer expert insights into crucial factors to consider, such as maintaining family traditions, the impact of travel and distance, school calendars (traditional vs. year-round), and the age of your children. We also offer advice on sensitive topics like gift-giving and decorations and stress the importance of flexibility and cooperation to reduce stress. Finally, we discuss what happens when parents simply can’t agree, and why a customized agreement is almost always better than a judge's standard order.

Whether you're new to holiday custody schedules or looking to refine your current plan, our planning tips can help you forge a holiday visitation plan that prioritizes your children's well-being and ensures everyone can embrace the spirit of the season.

If you are in need of legal assistance in North Carolina, contact us at Gailor Hunt by visiting www.divorceistough.com.

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While the information presented is intended to provide you with general information to navigate divorce without destruction, this podcast is not legal advice. This information is specific to the law in North Carolina. If you have any questions before taking action, consult an attorney who is licensed in your state.