The Christmas season is one of the most important times of the year for families, especially children. In Texas, holiday visitation follows specific rules laid out in the Standard Possession Order (SPO). For many families, especially those navigating shared parenting for the first time, understanding Christmas schedules can help bring peace, predictability, and stability for everyone involved.

At Barina Law Group, we know that holiday planning can quickly become stressful. This guide breaks down exactly how Christmas possession works in Texas, how to communicate effectively with the other parent, and how to support your child emotionally during the busiest season of the year.

How the Texas Christmas Possession Schedule Works

In Texas, Christmas visitation alternates every year:

Even-Numbered Years (2024, 2026, 2028…)

• The noncustodial parent has possession starting:
  The day school lets out at noon
  until
  December 28 at noon

Odd-Numbered Years (2025, 2027…)

• The custodial parent has the dates above, and
• The noncustodial parent receives:
  December 28 at noon
  until
  The day school resumes

Because we are discussing 2025, this year the custodial parent receives the first half of Christmas break, and the noncustodial parent receives the second half.

What If Your Order Is Not the Standard Possession Order?

Many families have:

• Custom holiday schedules
• Expanded SPO
• Military schedules
• Out-of-state orders
• Long-distance provisions
• Agreed modifications

If your order differs from the default Texas SPO, follow the written terms in your court documents.

When in doubt, Barina Law Group can review your order and explain exactly what applies.

Tips for Making Holiday Possession Go Smoothly

1. Confirm All Dates Early

Email or text the schedule to avoid misunderstandings.
Written communication is:

• Clear
• Documented
• Non-confrontational

2. Share Travel Plans Immediately

If you are traveling more than 100 miles or out of state, provide:

• Flight numbers
• Hotel details
• Relatives' names
• Addresses

This protects both parents—and the child.

3. Exchange Times Matter

Holiday exchanges are often emotionally charged. Consider:

• Neutral locations
• Public parking lots
• Calm, friendly greetings
• Letting children settle before opening presents

4. Don't Interfere With the Other Parent's Christmas

Even if you disagree with their choices, children benefit when both parents support their holiday time.

5. Avoid Competing With the Other Parent

Children should enjoy Christmas—not feel torn.
Reassure them:

• “You get TWO Christmas celebrations this year!”
• “You're loved in both homes.”

Positive language makes a huge difference.

When Holiday Schedules Need to Be Modified

If your Christmas schedule is causing:

• Conflict
• Confusion
• Travel hardship
• Emotional stress for the child
• Interference with military orders
• Problems due to PCS moves

…it may be time to update your order.

Barina Law Group handles modifications year-round and can help ensure your holiday schedule truly supports your child's best interests.

We're Here to Help

If you need support with:

• Holiday possession schedules
• Modifications
• Travel permissions
• Co-parenting disputes
• Emergency orders
• Military family exceptions

Visit www.bobbybarinalaw.com or call (254) 699-3755 to schedule a consultation.

Barina Law Group proudly serves families in Temple, Belton, Harker Heights, and all of Bell & Coryell Counties.