Tonight, children across the country will be dressing up and heading out with their parents for some long-awaited trick-or-treating. While it may seem hard to fathom, Halloween is actually the unofficial start of the holiday season, as Thanksgiving is less than a month away and Christmas is rapidly approaching. With these holidays right around the bend, it's important for divorced parents - especially those who share child custody - to stay connected with their children.

According to family experts, the advent of the holiday season can cause children to experience a variety of emotions - both good and bad - and have a multitude of questions.

Today's post, the first of two, will take a brief look at some tips offered by family experts for guiding children through tough times during the months ahead.

The tactile child

If your child's primary sense is tactile, meaning they prefer hands-on activities, then experts advise that they may express their frustration through physical aggression. This may constitute anything from refusing to share with other kids to alternatively pushing you away/demanding a hug.

Here, family experts recommend a hands-on activity. It needn't be anything complex, but rather something as simple as playing catch, taking a long walk or assembling a model.

This hands-on activity can help your child relax, making them more amenable to conversation and talking about what's bothering them. Experts advise that your child may talk about such issues as where they will be staying, and with whom they will be staying during the holidays.

The auditory child

If your child's primary sense is auditory, meaning they prefer listening activities, then experts advise that they may express their frustration by withdrawing and talking very little (if at all).

Similar to a tactile child, family experts recommend enjoying a simple project that will help your child slowly relax and encourage them to talk openly about how to proceed (i.e., an art project or assembling a piece of furniture).

In addition, experts advise letting your child set the tenor for the conversation, meaning let them talk about their concerns. Furthermore, once the subject has been broached, experts advise talking with them about setting up a clear schedule for the holidays.

Stay tuned for developments from our Phoenix divorce blog ...

If you are currently involved in a child custody dispute or would like more information visitation/grandparents' rights, you should strongly consider speaking with an experienced legal professional.

This post is provided for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.

Source:

The Kansas City Star, "Child sense: Helping your child deal with divorce during the holiday season" Oct. 31, 2011