Christmas can often be a source of stress for parents who are separated, as they must juggle the complex logistics of making sure their children experience both joy and time with each parent during the holiday season.
Child arrangements and Christmas
As we approach Christmas, we see a flurry of clients getting in touch for help to try and resolve arrangements for the festive season.
Key guidance from Government and family law experts is top of mind when giving clients advice on how to handle their arrangements. Here are our tips for managing these situations most effectively!
Last year, a leading family judge made it clear that parties should only be bringing disputes over children to court where absolutely necessary.
The judge went on to criticise parents for asking the court to micro-manage children arrangements. The view from the court is clear – where possible you should be sorting these things out yourself.
Tips for making child arrangements during Christmas
Preparation is key
Now is an important time to think about the future and make sure you have concrete plans. Start up a dialogue with your ex-partner; work together so that everyone’s needs are met in the long run!
Some clients we have worked with agreed that the children would spend Christmas Eve at one home and then return to the other for lunch on Christmas Day.
Other clients decided that they would spend the whole festive period with one parent and the next year spend it with the other, alternating between the two.
It is a personal choice based on what works for your family, but also the age of the children, location and how amicable you are.
Be prepared to be flexible as plans may need to change.
Focus on the children
Let’s make sure our children have the best Christmas possible! Instead of traditional Christmas festivities, this year presents us with an opportunity to get creative and plan something special. By embracing two days of celebration – twice as many gifts too – we can ensure a festive period filled with positivity for all ages!
By engaging with your children in the decision-making process, you can empower them and ensure they are heard. Ask younger kids what ideas or plans they have – no matter their age! Older children may surprise you with insightful contributions that give a whole new perspective to any plan of action.
Once in place, sharing plans with the children means they know where they will be throughout the Christmas holidays, and the routine will make them feel safe and secure.
With the holidays swiftly approaching, it can be tricky for kids to keep track of all they need or want to do. To help out your little ones stay organized, consider creating a visual plan! As one family did with their Christmas-themed wall planner; while teens may benefit more from utilising modern technology like shared Google calendars.
Be fair to the other parent
If this is your debut into the realm of separated parenting, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and heartbroken as Christmas approaches – a holiday for families that now needs to be shared.
Take a step back and consider the long term effects of your decisions on your former partner. Ask yourself if these arrangements still seem fair when you look at them next year? If not, it might be wise to revise them before moving forward.
Stick to the plan
Even the smallest changes to a child’s routine can create upset and insecurity. Though adaptability is important, creating an environment of reliable familiarity ensures kids feel safe and cared for.
Get advice early, if needed
Christmas is chaotic and organising a co-parenting schedule on top of everything else is never going to be easy, especially if communication between you and your ex-partner is difficult.
If you are struggling this year, take advice from a family lawyer who can try to assist in negotiating an agreement.
Get in touch
Christmas is now upon us, and if you’re in need of advice concerning child arrangements over Christmas or any other family law issues, the Team at Lund Bennett Altrincham and Manchester would be more than happy to assist. Our specialist lawyers are here to guide you through these challenges so that everyone can have a special festive period!