Careful planning can remove holiday stress for children of divorce

The transition for children of divorced parents during the holidays can be difficult, as many of the traditions that existed when their father and mother were together will like change following the split.

The London Free Press reported that cooperation and advanced planning need to occur in order for the holidays to go smoothly, helping children forget about the problems that may exist between their two parents.

"Fail to plan, plan to fail," Karen Stewart, a divorce mediator, told the news source. "If parents do not plan then kids are often left torn between where to go, who to spend time with - juggling the two families and extended families is more than any kids should have to handle."

New traditions can be created to replace older ones, helping to generate new memories for children and limiting the amount that they will miss the days when the family celebrated the holidays together, according to the Press.

The New York Times reported that children who are young can adapt to any significant changes if they are explained to them in the right way. An open dialogue needs to exist between parents and their kids.