When parents separate, one of the biggest concerns is time with their children. Holidays can be especially emotional and complicated. So, can custody orders include holiday schedules? Yes, they can—and often do.
Why holiday schedules matter
Regular custody orders cover weekly routines. But holidays break those routines. If you don’t address holidays clearly, it can lead to confusion or arguments. A court-approved holiday schedule helps both parents know exactly when each will have time with the child.
Without a holiday plan in place, disagreements can pop up at the last minute. One parent may assume they get a certain day, while the other expects the opposite. This uncertainty often causes unnecessary tension and puts kids in the middle.
How courts handle holiday time
California courts encourage detailed parenting plans. These plans usually include holiday schedules by default. Parents can agree on which holidays to include and how to divide them. Common choices include Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays, spring break, and summer vacation.
The court typically alternates holidays each year. For example, one parent might have the child for Thanksgiving in even-numbered years and the other in odd-numbered years. If parents agree on something else, the court often accepts it.
Judges prefer clear, fair arrangements that promote stability. If parents struggle to agree, the court will step in and make a decision based on the child’s best interest. Including a holiday schedule early can avoid needing the court to intervene.
Tips for building your schedule
Be specific. List each holiday and the exact start and end times. Include details like pick-up and drop-off locations. Think about school breaks and long weekends. You can even add special family traditions that matter to your child.
Flexibility helps too. If both parents stay open to change and put the child first, it makes the holidays smoother for everyone. Written plans avoid misunderstandings and reduce stress.
Consider how travel, family gatherings, and religious events might affect your plans. Planning ahead can help balance each parent’s wishes while still keeping your child’s experience front and center.
Clear plans make holidays easier
Yes, custody orders can and should include holiday schedules. They provide structure during a time that might otherwise cause tension. When you set expectations early, both parents and children benefit from a calmer, more enjoyable holiday season.
