The holidays can be a magical time for families—but for divorced or separated parents, they can also be one of the most stressful. Between school breaks, travel plans, and family expectations, creating a fair and peaceful holiday schedule can feel impossible.
Fortunately, Florida’s family law system provides a framework designed to help. Under recent updates to Florida’s parenting laws, courts now begin with a presumption that children benefit from spending equal time with both parents. That 50/50 starting point applies to holidays, too—unless parents agree otherwise or a court determines a different schedule is in the child’s best interests.
At Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti, we’ve helped Florida families navigate these emotional issues for more than 40 years. Below are practical steps to keep the holidays joyful, even when parents live apart.
1. Review Your Parenting Plan Early
Every parenting plan approved by a Florida court includes a holiday time-sharing schedule. Review it well before Thanksgiving, winter break, or spring holidays arrive.
Look at:
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How holidays alternate each year.
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When exchanges occur (day/time and location).
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Special provisions for travel, religious observances, or family events.
If you need changes—such as swapping weekends or adjusting pickup times—request them early. Judges expect parents to communicate proactively and avoid last-minute disputes.
2. Be Flexible When Possible
Even though Florida’s law presumes equal time-sharing, life doesn’t always fit neatly into a calendar. School performances, extended family gatherings, or travel opportunities can require adjustments.
Flexibility goes a long way. A parent who agrees to swap Christmas morning this year might find the same courtesy extended for spring break next year. Courts—and children—notice cooperative behavior.
3. Keep the Focus on the Children
Holidays aren’t about “winning time” or “scoring points.” They’re about giving your child happy memories with both parents.
Keep conversations child-centered:
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“How can we make this easier for them?” instead of “What do I deserve?”
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Ask your child what traditions they value most, and plan around those.
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Encourage the child to enjoy time with the other parent without guilt.
The court’s guiding principle is always the best interests of the child—and parents who model calm cooperation strengthen their child’s sense of security.
4. Communicate Clearly (and in Writing)
Use text, email, or a co-parenting app like OurFamilyWizard or Talking Parents to coordinate plans. These tools:
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Keep communications organized and documented.
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Reduce misunderstandings about dates or logistics.
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Help courts verify who said what if disputes arise later.
Stay courteous and businesslike—treat co-parenting messages as if a judge might someday read them (because they might).
5. Have a Backup Plan
Even the best schedules can fall apart due to flight cancellations, illness, or last-minute conflicts. Build a “Plan B” so your child isn’t caught in the middle.
Agree in advance how to handle missed time—whether through make-up days, video calls, or an extra weekend later.
6. When You Can’t Agree, Get Help Early
If disagreements about holiday time-sharing persist, mediation or court intervention may be necessary. Florida courts expect parents to attempt to resolve issues before filing emergency motions.
An experienced family law attorney can:
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Review your parenting plan and suggest lawful options.
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Communicate with the other parent’s attorney to reach a compromise.
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File a timely motion if needed to resolve issues before the holidays.
7. Keep Perspective
Divorce changes holiday traditions—but it doesn’t have to ruin them. Focus on what your children will remember years from now: that both parents cared enough to put them first.
A smooth, stress-free holiday schedule doesn’t happen by accident. It takes planning, communication, and a willingness to cooperate.
Why Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti P.A.?
At Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti, we help our clients navigate these challenges every day. With more than 40 years of experience representing families across Miami-Dade, Broward, and the Florida Keys, we know how to protect your rights in a digital age.
If you are facing divorce, custody, or a parenting dispute, don’t let social media or digital evidence catch you off guard. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
