Texas custody law is built around one core principle:
the best interest of the child.

Under the Texas Family Code, possession and access are designed to:

• Promote a strong parent-child relationship

• Encourage frequent and continuing contact

• Support emotional, educational, and physical development

This means parenting is not limited to in-person time alone. Courts recognize that connection matters, even when distance or schedules interfere.

1. Make Full Use of Your Possession Time

Holiday possession is often longer but less frequent—especially in long-distance cases. To make the most of it:

• Be fully present (less phone, fewer distractions)

• Create predictable routines during your time

• Allow downtime—don't over-schedule

• Focus on shared experiences, not constant activities

• Let your child help plan parts of the visit

Children remember how they felt more than what they did.

2. Use Electronic Communication to Maintain Daily Connection

Texas law allows courts to order electronic communication between parents and children. This includes:

• Phone calls

• Video calls

• Text messages

• Emails

Electronic communication is especially important during:

• Holiday separations

• Long-distance parenting

• Military deployment

• School-year travel restrictions

Short, consistent check-ins often mean more than long, infrequent calls. Even five minutes of connection can reassure a child that they are loved and supported.

3. Long-Distance Provisions Help Maximize Parenting Time

When parents live more than 100 miles apart, Texas allows possession schedules to be modified so that time is usable and meaningful.

Well-drafted long-distance provisions may include:

• Extended holiday and summer possession

• Travel rules that minimize exhaustion

• Closest-airport requirements

• Non-stop flight provisions

• Clear drop-off and pick-up responsibilities

• Advance notice of travel details

These provisions exist to ensure travel does not consume the parenting time itself.

4. Travel Time Can Still Be Connection Time

Travel days do not have to feel like “lost time.”

Parents can use travel to:

• Talk without distractions

• Listen to audiobooks together

• Share music or podcasts

• Play word games

• Discuss plans and goals

Children often open up emotionally during quiet travel moments.

5. Encourage the Child's Relationship With the Other Parent

Texas courts look favorably on parents who support—not undermine—the child's relationship with the other parent.

This includes:

• Speaking respectfully about the other parent

• Allowing reasonable communication

• Helping the child transition calmly

• Avoiding loyalty conflicts

Supporting the child's whole world strengthens trust in your relationship with them.

6. Create Continuity Between Homes

Children do best when life feels consistent.

Helpful ideas include:

• Shared calendars

• Similar bedtimes

• Familiar routines

• Allowing comfort items to travel

• Maintaining holiday traditions across households

Consistency reduces emotional strain and helps children feel secure.

7. Understand That Quality Can Outweigh Quantity

A parent who is present, engaged, and emotionally available can build a strong bond—even with limited time.

Quality parenting looks like:

• Listening more than talking

• Showing interest in the child's world

• Being emotionally available

• Respecting the child's feelings

• Following through on promises

Courts recognize—and children remember—this kind of parenting.

8. When Time, Distance, or Conflict Interfere

If holiday schedules, travel problems, or communication barriers are harming the parent-child relationship, it may be time to revisit the order.

Texas law allows modifications to:

• Possession schedules

• Travel provisions

• Electronic communication

• Holiday arrangements

Legal clarity often brings emotional relief.

The Bottom Line

The holiday season does not have to weaken a parent-child relationship. With thoughtful planning, full use of possession time, consistent communication, and properly drafted long-distance provisions, parents can strengthen their bond—no matter how far apart they live.

Call to Action

If you are navigating holiday parenting schedules, long-distance travel, or concerns about maintaining a strong relationship with your child, do not rely on guesswork or informal agreements.

📞 Contact Barina Law Group to review your Texas custody order and ensure it truly supports meaningful parenting time.
🌐 Visit www.bobbybarinalaw.com

Your time with your child matters. Make sure