Ex is being difficult about Christmas schedule

1w ago1 min read

We've been divorced 2 years and up until now the holiday schedule has been pretty straightforward. This year she's demanding I take the kids the whole week before Christmas instead of starting on the 23rd like we agreed. She wants to go on a trip with her new boyfriend and basically wants me to cover more days. I'm fine with helping out but this feels like she's not respecting what we worked out. Should I just agree to keep the peace or push back?

9 comments200 views

Comments(9)

JJayson H.New Dad1w ago

Two years smooth and then boom. Did something specific happen or did the ex just wake up and decide to make things difficult? Either way I'd get a custody mediator involved sooner rather than later if you can afford it. Kids deserve consistency.

NNolan D.New Dad1w ago

Co-parenting disputes around holidays are rough. Try to keep the conversation focused on what's best for the kids rather than winning. If you've got a 50/50 schedule it might be worth getting a mediator involved if it's getting heated.

RRobertNew Dad1w ago

Christmas schedules are the worst when someone decides to flip the script. Have you documented what was agreed on in the original divorce papers? That might be your first move before any negotiation. Hate to say it but sometimes you need to remind them what they already agreed to.

CChris M.Regular1w ago

I feel for you. Holiday schedules with an ex can get messy fast. If you don't have it in writing in your custody agreement, get it nailed down this year so there's no ambiguity next Christmas.

WWade T.Regular1w ago

Man, that's rough. Two years of smooth sailing and now she's changing it up - I'd be frustrated too. Have you guys tried putting the schedule in writing if you haven't already? Saved me a lot of headaches with my co-parenting situation.

AAaron T.New Dad1w ago

Yeah, exes pulling stuff last minute is the worst. I'd say get ahead of it and propose something that works for both of you before Christmas stress takes over. Might save a lot of back and forth.

SScott W.Regular1w ago

Oof, that's tough timing. Definitely doesn't sound fun, but try to remember the kids just want both parents there in some capacity. Maybe there's a compromise that lets everyone feel like they're getting something?

JJayson H.New Dad1w ago

Man, this is rough. I've been there with my two kids post-divorce. What changed with the ex? Is it a new partner situation or just getting tired of the routine? Sometimes I find sitting down and reminding them that consistency helps the kids actually makes a difference. Hang in there.

NNathanRegular1w ago

This is tough territory. Two years in should mean things are smoother but sometimes exes use holidays as leverage. Document everything and try to keep communication in writing so there's a record. Kids shouldn't be in the middle of the debate.