Your child’s birthday is a special occasion that they look forward to all year long. Don’t let your divorce spoil all of the fun. Talk with your ex about how to best celebrate the day. If you work together, you should be able to find a peaceful solution.
Remember to consider what your child wants to do. Hopefully, it will be something that you and your ex can handle together without arguing, If everyone cooperates, this celebration will be quite memorable for your child.
Options for your child’s birthday celebration
Some of the ways to celebrate your child’s birthday after divorce include:
1. Throwing one big party for all family members and friends. Choose a neutral location such as a recreation center, bowling alley or movie theater. By having the party at a neutral location, you and your ex won’t have to worry about setting up or cleaning up afterward. You can simply show up, celebrate, and leave with some nice memories for the birthday child.
2. Sharing the day. Take your child for a brunch celebration. Then, allow your ex to take your child for dinner.
3. Having separate celebrations might be the best option if you and your ex (or your families) can’t get along. Consider the following:
- Throw your own separate birthday party every year. Your ex can do the same. Your child might like having two parties!
- Take turns hosting the party each year. You might let your ex-spouse host the celebrations during odd-numbered years. This would allow you to host during the even-numbered years.
Divorce is never easy on families. When it comes to celebrating special days such as your child’s birthday, it’s important to set aside your differences. As long as everyone remembers that the day is about your child you should be able to have a great celebration.
If you cannot work this out between the two of you it might be time to revisit your custody plan.