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Divorce and Halloween: Tips for a Smooth and Joyful Celebration
Halloween divorce Karen Omand, B.A Soc, B.A Than, CT Halloween divorce Karen Omand, B.A Soc, B.A Than, CT

Divorce and Halloween: Tips for a Smooth and Joyful Celebration

For many children, including my own, Halloween is not just another day—it's a BIG deal! My children talk about Halloween just as much as they do about Christmas. The adventures of Halloween start at a young age, as they excitedly don their cute little outfits and embark on a journey of spooky fun. Or as they grow older, they start having real involvement in choosing their Halloween costumes for the year. As families, we cherish the special Halloween traditions and routines we've built over the years, maybe we hosted or attended annual Halloween parties or went out with a group of friends or loved ones. However, all of this changes when divorce enters the picture, and suddenly, Halloween can become a bit tricky to navigate. The significance of this cherished occasion in our children's lives demands that we prioritize their happiness and ensure they have a magical Halloween without any unnecessary tension-filled moments.

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Co-Parenting During the Holidays: How to Manage Anxiety When You Have to See Your Ex

Co-Parenting During the Holidays: How to Manage Anxiety When You Have to See Your Ex

I remember the first holiday season after our separation, and boy, was I nervous. My eldest was performing with her band at a beautiful venue, and I was truly looking forward to it. But my body? It was telling a completely different story. I was a bundle of nerves—tight chest, fidgety hands, that unsettled feeling sitting right under my ribs.

It wasn’t the concert that made me anxious. I knew my ex would be there. Knowing I’d have to stand in the same room, smile, and act composed while my insides were doing somersaults.

From the moment the divorce begins, many parents find themselves living on what I call the Front Stage—the place where you’re expected to stay composed, cooperative, and steady for your children, even when inside you’re dealing with heartbreak, anger, or survival-level stress. The holidays make these moments even more emotionally loaded because traditions, memories, and expectations are already heightened.

Have you ever had to put on a brave face and play nice with your ex in public? It’s like starring in a soap opera—or for some, winning an Oscar—just without the fame or fortune. Co-parenting throws you into situations where you must keep your cool for your children’s sake, even when every part of you is screaming otherwise.

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Co-Parenting During the Holidays: Managing Grief, Stress, and Family Dynamics
divorce, divorce holidays, coparenting Karen Omand, B.A Soc, B.A Than, CT divorce, divorce holidays, coparenting Karen Omand, B.A Soc, B.A Than, CT

Co-Parenting During the Holidays: Managing Grief, Stress, and Family Dynamics

The holiday season is here—a time of joy, reflection, and, for many, emotional challenges. If you're navigating co-parenting during a divorce, this time of year can amplify both the good and the hard. It’s a season filled with festive events, family gatherings, and traditions—but also with moments that might feel bittersweet or even overwhelming.

Have you ever had to put on a brave face and play nice with your ex in public? It can feel like starring in a soap opera or winning an Oscar—minus the fame or fortune. However, that’s exactly what co-parenting often is: a balancing act of emotions where you have to keep your cool for your children’s sake.

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