Co-Parenting over the school holidays can be difficult. At GT Stewart Solicitors, we understand that most parents want to avoid Court Proceedings where possible and try to resolve disagreements amicably, in other ways. There are many ways to negotiate with an ex-partner to try and reach an agreement about how time with your child should be split. Indeed, if Court proceedings are pursued, you may need evidence that there has been some attempt and negotiation before you apply for a Child Arrangement Order.

Often the most successful Child Arrangement cases are those that are clear, child-focused and planned ahead.

Here are some tips and tricks for managing Child Arrangements over the holidays:

Agree Plans Early

Discuss dates, times, handover and travel arrangements well in advance. Putting the plan in writing, even by email or message, gives everyone clarity and avoids unnecessary discussions or disagreements on the day of contact.

Keep Contact Arrangements Child Focused

It is not always possible for a child to spend equal time with each parent during the holidays. Child Arrangements don't have to be perfect, but they must be practical and focused around the child's needs, plans, wishes and feelings.

Be Clear About Trips Away

If one parent plans to take a child abroad, check whether consent is needed and share travel details in good time. If you hold the child's passport, make sure to provide the passport to the other parent in good time and agree arrangements for the passport to be returned in advance of the trip. If there is Child Arrangements Order, make sure the holiday plans comply with the terms of Order.

Communicate Calmly

Try to keep conversations with the other parent respectful and avoid involving children in disagreements. If direct discussions are difficult, written communication or mediation may help.

We often advise separated parents to communicate with each other using apps such as OurFamilyWizard or AppClose. Some of the benefits of Parenting Apps include:

• Managing schedule and sharing files

• Using Tone Meters to check the tone of the messages before they're sent to avoid confrontation/difficult communication

• Sharing doctors appointments and sporting events in a shared calendar so all users are kept in the loop

• Communicating with your co-parent via the app instead of via phone calls and text messages

• Messages are downloadable and can be later produced for court proceedings where necessary and proportionate

  Knowing When to be Flexible

  Plans can be affected by illness, travel delays or changes to work commitments. Being willing to make reasonable adjustments, while keeping the children’s welfare as the priority, can help avoid unnecessary conflict. If an arrangement is not working, review it together and consider whether a more formal parenting plan would help.

  When to Seek Legal Advice

  If negotiation isn’t working for you, or if you have concerns about the safety of your child whilst in the care of the other parent, it is sensible to seek legal advice as early as possible. Early advice can often help parents resolve matters before the holidays begin, giving children the certainty they need to enjoy their break.

  Our Birmingham family team can talk you through your options, whether that includes mediation, negotiations or Court proceedings. We can take you through eligibility for Legal Aid and support you with making an application for Legal Aid where relevant. We can talk you through the use of Parenting Apps and help you to find the right solution for you and your family.  

  Contact us on 012 1643 4121  and speak to one of our Family Lawyers today.