Does divorce mean the end of family time? That is how many people take it. Even if the parents divide their time with the children, they spend that time with them independently. They do not have full family time any longer.
However, there are cases where this type of family time may be considered as an option. For instance, a child may struggle with the transition into divorce and ask that you all meet up for dinner or spend a weekend afternoon together. Or, you may find yourselves coming to an important event, like a birthday party for one of the kids or a graduation ceremony and you may consider attending it together for the sake of your children.
This can work out, and some couples embrace the idea to a whole different level. They will actually go on vacation together and give the children dedicated family time. These parents are able to put their own feelings and differences aside to give the children the experience that they want.
If you do this, it is important to set rules and boundaries. For instance, the children may see it as a sign that the two of you are thinking of getting back together. If that is something they want, spending family time together may actually hurt them emotionally if it gives them false hope but does not lead to that outcome. You need to make sure that you, your ex and your children all understand exactly what is happening and what it means — and does not mean — for the future.
If you are considering a complex post-divorce situation like this, make sure you are well-aware of your legal rights through every step in the process.
