For children of divorced parents, the holiday season can be an emotionally turbulent time. Many experience stress and confusion as they navigate two households, altered traditions, and complicated family dynamics. Renowned psychologist Dr. Don Gordon, Executive Director of The Center for Divorce Education, is addressing these challenges head-on with his Children in Between Online program, designed to help co-parents reduce conflict and prioritize their children’s well-being.
“The holidays can bring up a deep sense of loss for both children and parents,” explains Dr. Gordon. “Kids may feel torn between two families and may struggle with the absence of the familiar traditions they once enjoyed. It’s crucial for parents to slow down and manage their own emotions, so they can create a stable, supportive environment for their children.”
In his recent appearance on the Co-Parenting Conversations podcast, Dr. Gordon shared actionable tips for co-parents facing the holidays, emphasizing the importance of empathy and flexibility. “One of the most important things you can do is give your children permission to love the other parent,” Dr. Gordon advises. “One of the worst things about divorce is when children think they’re not allowed to love both parents. That puts them in an impossible bind.”
Dr. Gordon’s insights highlight the often-overlooked stress that children face during the holidays. From juggling schedules to maintaining harmony, he encourages parents to collaborate thoughtfully. Through Children in Between Online, parents learn strategies for managing conflict and communicating constructively, equipping them to ease the emotional strain on their children.
In addition to the online program, The Center for Divorce Education offers a suite of resources to support co-parents during the holidays. Articles like Navigating Your First Christmas After Divorce, Should Divorced Parents Spend Holidays Together?, and Holiday Tips for Co-Parents provide valuable guidance on maintaining a peaceful, child-focused holiday season.
“Parents need to be mindful of their own stress, as children often pick up on it,” Dr. Gordon emphasizes. “Taking time to get outside, exercise, and focus on self-care can help parents stay calm and supportive. Children need the reassurance of a stable, loving environment more than ever during this time of year.”
As more families prepare to navigate this holiday season post-divorce, Dr. Gordon and The Center for Divorce Education are working to create a season filled with stability and peace for children, helping parents approach this time with compassion and cooperation.
About The Center for Divorce Education
The Center for Divorce Education is a trusted leader in helping families navigate separation with award-winning, evidence -based programs. We offer specialized programs such as Children in Between Online, Children in Between: For Kids, and High Conflict Solutions, each designed to support healthy family dynamics. Recognized nationally for innovation in family education, our programs empower parents to build cooperative, child-focused co-parenting relationships. For more information visit divorce-education.com or for business inquiries email Dr. Gordon directly at don@divorce-education.com.
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