Get five helpful tips for managing Father’s Day after divorce to benefit you and the kids.

If your children are blessed enough to have a father in their lives that wants to celebrate Father’s Day after divorce with them, then that is something in itself to be celebrated. Was your ex a terrible husband? Maybe. Does that mean he’s a terrible father? Nope!

Studies OVERWHELMINGLY show that involvement of fathers has important consequences for a child’s well-being. There is so much data to show how children’s development, behavior, social outcomes, psychological well-being, confidence etc. are positively impacted by a father’s presence in their lives. All that is to say, if you want what is best for your children and their dad is safe for them to be with, then you should support the relationship. Father’s Day is just one way to do this.

Here are some simple tips for you to support celebrating Father’s Day after divorce:

1) Be flexible on your plans. Father’s Day may be “your day” in the schedule, so perhaps consider accommodating a swap so they can celebrate on that day.

2) Offer to help with a card. No one expects you to dish out money for a gift for your ex, but a card is really a nice way for your child to show appreciation. Little kids may need help with writing. Older kids may need a ride to a store to pick one out.

3) Have a pleasant attitude about the day. Don’t make any weird or negative comments about your ex, about their plans, or about the day. Allow your kids to feel excited without being made to feel guilty about it.

4) Don’t ask a million questions. Kids do not like to receive the third degree about their time with their dad. Let them tell you what they want to without feeling like they are being interrogated. The last thing you want is for them to not want to tell you what happens when they aren’t with you.

5) Relax! This is 1 day out of 365 of your ex is being celebrated. That is .27% of the year! You can handle it. Find something else to focus on and you’ll do great.

The more you can do to help your children successfully celebrate Father’s Day after divorce, the easier it will be for them to feel comfortable with this new arrangement and will come back to you in many more positive ways.