by Lisa Caissie

Created on: September 28, 2009   Last Updated: September 29, 2009

Celebrations and Holidays among blended families can be a joyous or trying experience depending on how you deal with the situation. All families are unique and come with their own holiday traditions, beliefs and schedules. A key component to planning celebrations and holidays among both families is the discuss them well in advance so that they may be worked out beforehand. The last thing you want is an argument or misunderstanding at the last minute. This can create tension and animosity within your family structure causing chaos and conflicting schedules during the Holiday season.

First off, you must be aware of each others background and how they are used to celebrating the holidays. Every family is different, and the more sensitive and open you are to one another's traditions and beliefs the better. Maybe your partner likes to spend Christmas Eve with his family and you tend to see your family on Christmas Day. This situation would work out in both of your favor because you can keep the schedules you are both accustomed to without having to rearrange anything. However, it is not always that easy. If you are both used to having dinner at your parents house at 1:00pm every Thanksgiving, some compromise may be in order. Perhaps you can have dinner at one place and dessert at the other and switch off every year so that it is fair for you both.

In certain instances you or your partner may have family that lives out of state and would be difficult for you both to make time to see each other's families together on the same day. Be understanding to your partner without resentment. Maybe you can see your family and allow him to go and see his, and you can meet up later on and have your own family time together. There are several ways to go about it. Discuss things with your partner to figure out what works best for both families. Don't compete with one another, both families are of equal importance. Remember, you are also now a part of that family as they are a part of yours.

Not only are you working on planning celebrations and holidays with one another's families but another fact to take into consideration is the child's other parent. I know that within my own family I have to plan time for my family, my boyfriend, step-son and his family as well as time for both of our children's other parents to see their children. It may take some time, compromise and patience but it can be done. If you are understanding and considerate of one another you will work it out.

The holidays can be a wonderful opportunity to bring your family closer together. Just remember to plan ahead and be considerate of each others feelings and all should work out accordingly.

Learn more about this author, Lisa Caissie.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.