Single Dad Tips For The Holidays

Single dads will struggle during the first few holidays. If you were in a long-term relationship, the first few holidays will seem quite foreign to you. Loneliness can sometime happen. Here are a few tips to help you throughout the holidays.

1. Letting go - Believe it or not, you say she wants you back, but guess what, you will go through the same struggles. The sooner you accept the new changes, the better it gets for you and the mom of your child.

2. Split households - If you were in a relationship, sharing the holidays will seem foreign to you. In fact, it will take years to get use to it. Compromise with your ex and work on holiday schedules that work for everyone.

3.  Revisit your fondest memories - believe it or not, your parents may have some traditions that made fond memories from your past. Do not dwell on the present day situation of being single. Take the time to begin new traditions while honoring the past traditions with your children. Traditions are important to a child.

4. Volunteering - Kids learn from example. Consider donating some time at the rescue mission. This can put some context on giving and receiving that are important values for children to learn.

5. Reach out to extended families an friends - You need support just like your children. Reach out to your friends and family during this time of the year. Sharing is caring and sometimes, you will learn your family and friends love having you back again. 

6. Gift giving is not a competition - sometimes, 2 adults separated from their children over the holidays will compete for the love of the children through presents. Whether through guilt or spite, the purchasing of gifts to leverage one parent over another is not a good idea. Talk to you ex about a gift giving plan that is reasonable for both parties. Also, never underestimate the value of your time during the holidays. Purchase simple gifts that can involve dad. Parental involvement is the best gift for a child. Board games, interactive tech toys and models are just a few example of gifts that encourage time together.

7. Let it go!!! The relationship has ended. Christmas is a time that we reflect upon peace and joy. One can not work without the other. Find peace and for your kid's sake, be at peace with their mom. It is important for you to show them the value of respect. Even if you have a toxic partner, you should be the example.