Divorce and separation bring enormous changes for families, and one of the most sensitive issues parents face is deciding how children will spend holidays and special occasions.
Birthdays, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and other meaningful times carry strong emotional importance. If these occasions are not addressed clearly in a parenting plan, conflict can quickly arise, often leaving children caught in the middle.
At Verhaeghe Law in Edmonton, our family lawyers help parents negotiate and draft parenting plans that work in practice—not just on paper. A well-prepared plan that covers holidays and special occasions provides stability for children and reduces stress for parents. Contact us today to get started with your plan.
Why Holidays Are Often a Source of Conflict for Co-Parents
Holidays are more than just dates on a calendar—they are times when traditions are built, extended family gathers, and memories are made. Parents may disagree about how to split their time over dates like:
- Religious and cultural holidays such as Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid, or Diwali.
- Statutory long weekends like Victoria Day or Labour Day.
- Birthdays of the child, parents, or close relatives.
- School breaks, including summer vacation, spring break, or winter holidays.
- Special family events, such as weddings, reunions, or milestone celebrations.
When both parents want the same holiday with their child, disputes can escalate quickly. Without clear rules, children may feel torn between parents or miss out on cherished traditions.
How Alberta Laws Regard Parenting Plans
Under Alberta’s Family Law Act and the federal Divorce Act, parenting arrangements must always reflect the best interests of the child. Courts generally encourage shared parenting during holidays where possible, but each family’s circumstances are unique.
Some of the approaches commonly used in Alberta parenting plans include:
- Alternating years: One parent has Christmas in even-numbered years, while the other has it in odd years.
- Dividing the holiday: For example, Christmas Eve with one parent and Christmas Day with the other.
- Rotating long weekends: Parents alternate statutory holidays to ensure fairness.
Splitting birthdays: A child spends part of the day with one parent and part with the other, or parents alternate years. - And other arrangements
Courts prefer detailed plans that reduce ambiguity and give children predictability.
Practical Tips for Creating Parenting Plans
When creating a parenting plan, it helps to be specific and realistic. You may want to consider the following:
- Detail dates and times: Vague language like “holidays will be shared fairly” can lead to disputes. Instead, specify start and end times.
- Account for travel: Busy holidays can involve long drives, weather issues, or flight delays. Build this into your schedule. If you’re unsure of what to anticipate, your parenting plan lawyer can provide suggestions based on their experience.
- Include extended family: If grandparents or relatives host annual events, consider how children can participate.
- Respect traditions: If one parent celebrates specific religious or cultural holidays, ensure they are reflected in the plan.
- Be flexible: Life happens—work schedules, illness, or travel may require adjustments. Flexibility helps maintain goodwill.
Common Disputes During The Holidays and How to Avoid Them Using a Parenting Plan
Disagreements about holidays often arise when one parent feels excluded or believes the plan is unfair. Some common disputes include:
- One parent not returning the child on time.
- Confusion about which parent has priority for a long weekend.
- Disagreements about international travel during holidays.
- Extended family events conflicting with the agreed-upon schedule.
Most of these issues can be avoided by having a comprehensive written plan that is enforceable under Alberta law.
How Verhaeghe Law Can Help With a Parenting Plan
At Verhaeghe Law, our Edmonton family and parenting plan lawyers:
- Draft detailed parenting plans that anticipate common holiday conflicts.
- Negotiate agreements with the other parent’s lawyer to reduce stress and legal costs.
- Seek court orders if parents cannot agree, ensuring the child’s best interests are protected.
- Assist with modifications if circumstances change, such as a parent relocating or changing jobs.
- Advocate in disputes where one parent is not following the plan.
By working with our lawyers, you can create a plan that not only protects your parental rights but also prioritizes your child’s happiness. Parenting plans that are too vague often lead to repeated disputes. Alberta courts expect parents to act in the child’s best interests, but without legal advice, parents may unintentionally agree to unrealistic schedules.
With an experienced family lawyer, you can ensure your parenting plan is thorough, enforceable, and practical.
Contact Verhaeghe Law For Assistance in Creating Your Parenting Plan in Alberta
Holidays should be joyful, not stressful. A strong parenting plan ensures children spend meaningful time with both parents and reduces conflict for years to come.
If you are drafting or updating a parenting plan, contact Verhaeghe Law’s Edmonton family lawyers today. We will help you create an agreement that works for your family and protects your child’s best interests.