The holidays are often the first real stress test for a parenting plan. Once the decorations come down and life returns to normal, many divorced parents realize something important: the current custody arrangement isnโt working anymore. Post-holiday parenting conflicts are common, and they often signal the need for clearer structureโor legal changes.
When expectations clash, missed exchanges, disagreements over school schedules, and lingering resentment can quickly turn into ongoing conflict.
Why Post-Holiday Issues Happen
Holidays disrupt routines. Children travel, schedules change, and emotions run high. After the holidays, parents often struggle to transition back into regular parenting time. Common issues include:
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Disagreements over holiday makeup time
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One parent refusing to return to the standard schedule
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Conflicts over school drop-offs and extracurriculars
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Communication breakdowns after tense holiday exchanges
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Children resisting transitions between homes
What feels like a โholiday problemโ often exposes deeper flaws in the parenting plan.
When a Parenting Plan Isnโt Clear Enough
Many parenting plans address holidays generally but fail to spell out what happens afterward. Vague language leads to different interpretationsโand conflict. If a plan doesnโt clearly define when holiday parenting time ends and regular schedules resume, parents are left to negotiate in real time, often unsuccessfully.
Clear parenting plans reduce power struggles. Unclear plans invite them.
Can You Modify a Parenting Plan After the Holidays?
Yesโbut only under the right circumstances.
In Nebraska, parenting plans can be modified if there has been a material change in circumstances and the modification is in the best interests of the child. Post-holiday issues may justify a modification if they reveal ongoing problems such as:
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A parent repeatedly withholding parenting time
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Chronic scheduling conflicts affecting school or childcare
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Increased conflict harming the childโs emotional well-being
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Changes in work schedules or transportation logistics
Temporary frustration isnโt enough. Patterns matter.
What You Should Do If Post-Holiday Conflict Continues
If issues persist beyond a few weeks, itโs time to actโnot react.
Steps to take:
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Document everything: missed exchanges, messages, schedule deviations
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Follow the existing plan as closely as possible
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Avoid informal changes that could be used against you later
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Consult a family law attorney before conflict escalates
Courts look favorably on parents who prioritize structure, consistency, and the childโs needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Post-Holiday Custody Issues
What if my ex wonโt return to the regular schedule after the holidays?
This may be a violation of the parenting plan. Repeated refusals can justify court enforcement or modification.
Can we just agree to change things without court involvement?
Only if both parents agree and the change is submitted for court approval. Informal changes are risky.
Do holiday conflicts affect custody decisions?
Yes. Ongoing conflict, especially when it impacts the child, can influence future custody determinations.
Is mediation required before going to court?
In many cases, mediation is encouraged or required unless there are safety concerns.
The Bigger Picture
Post-holiday custody disputes are rarely just about January schedules. Theyโre about predictability, control, and whether the parenting plan truly reflects your familyโs reality. Addressing these issues early prevents long-term damageโto both co-parenting relationships and children.
This article should not be construed as legal advice. Every familyโs situation is different, and legal outcomes depend on individual facts.
At Hightower Reff Law, our family law attorneys help parents enforce, clarify, and modify parenting plans when they stop workingโafter the holidays or any time of year. If post-holiday conflict has turned into an ongoing problem, contact us to discuss your options and protect your childโs stability.
