Should I Help My Child Get a Gift for My Ex?

It can be difficult to manage all the emotions associated with the holidays, especially when it comes to co-parenting with an ex. Children may feel torn about what to get their parents or feel discouraged about giving one parent a specific gift versus the other.

Co-parents can help make this easier for their children by working together to ensure they feel supported during this otherwise exciting time.

Tips for Giving Gifts

As shared, a child may feel conflicted about asking one parent for help or giving their other parent a gift. However, parents should encourage the child that it is okay for them to give a gift to their other parent if they want to. Parents should welcome the idea rather than make the child think this is a burden. Even if a parent isn’t truly excited about helping their child pick a gift for the other parent, it’s critical for the first parent not to show that emotion otherwise the child may pick up on that feeling.

One way for parents and their child to get more excited about this process is by brainstorming gift ideas together. Parents should share if there is a budget for the gift and guide their child into choosing a gift or gifts that they feel would be special for the other parent. Ideas can include a favorite candy, a coupon book for the completion of household chores or other tasks, or a small trinket that will remind the parent of their child.

Tips for Receiving Gifts

Just as special as it can be for a child to choose a gift for their other parent, parents who receive a gift and know that their ex helped with the process should show their gratitude. This task may not be easy for all co-parents, but showing appreciation for the time and effort the other parent put in to help their child choose a gift can go a long way. By acting appropriately in this scenario, co-parents are setting good examples for their child which can last a lifetime.

Co-Parenting this Holiday Season?

If you are co-parenting this holiday season, the team at Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C. hopes everything is merry and bright. But if your ex is acting more like a scrooge, or you are hoping to make changes to your child custody arrangement, count on Law Office of Julio E. Portilla, P.C. to be there for you. Our dedicated family law attorney can assist you so you can get back to focusing on your child.

Contact our dedicated New York family law team online or by phone to get started. (917) 909-6166