Avoiding arguments over time with the kids

I recognize that I have posted a good bit about cooperating and coping through the holidays, but, on the principle that sometimes more really is more, I am inclined to pass along any helpful advice on this most difficult of subjects as I can. So, below is some very good advice from the blog Indiana Family Law:

Don’t do it. Don’t argue about it. Cooperate instead. Your kids and your families will thank you. If you have to get the children to the other parent’s home by a certain time, make it a point to arrive 15 minutes early. You will not only avoid the “you’re late” issue, but a little kindness can go a long way.

Give up some of your holiday time so that the other parent gets to enjoy a part of the day as well. Unless the other parent is a genuine threat to the safety of the children, there’s no conceivable reason that a parent should not be able to spend part of Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or any other holiday with the kids. Again, a little kindness will go a long way, and your kids will be glad to see and spend time with both parents on the holiday.

Finally, don’t be a Scrooge. Even if your co-parent is a royal pain in the posterior, behave well because you choose to, not because the other parent “deserves it.” You’ll feel better about yourself along the way…and it might even drive that difficult co-parent a little crazy that you’re being so nice.

Source: Indiana Family Law (via South Carolina Family Law Blog)