Agreeing Child Contact Over The Summer Holidays

Agreeing on contact arrangements for the summer holidays can be a challenge for separated parents. However, whilst it can be a difficult conversation (or multiple conversations) it is important that parents come to an agreement about who their child will spend with during the summer weeks.

If you have not yet broached the subject of child contact arrangements over the summer holidays or are looking for tips as to how to make discussions more productive over the coming years, then here are some points to consider.

Top tips on agreeing to child contact arrangements for the summer holidays

1. Communication is the key

Many separated parents find it difficult or uncomfortable to discuss arrangements for their child, particularly over the summer weeks which can be a busy and stressful period.

Parents should try and focus on the issue at hand when agreeing on arrangements. Communicate via e-mail if a face-to-face conversation is difficult. As with any discussions regarding your child, this will give you the opportunity to remove any emotive language and focus on the issues that need to be resolved.

It is also important to start these discussions as soon as possible. The earlier you start planning, the more time you will have to find a solution that works for everyone.

2. Planning, being flexible and realistic about your expectations

The summer weeks can often be very busy, especially if each parent wants to take their child on holiday. It could be difficult to keep everyone happy and to fit everything in, especially when there are now two very separate families to consider.

It is vital to plan ahead, be flexible as possible and be realistic about your expectations. Communicate your expectations for the summer and try to understand that the other parent is likely to have plans that involve the child too.

3. Think about the child

It is essential that you focus on the impact of any arrangements that are made on your child and what they want to do during the summer. This is the approach that the Court will take, and many family solicitors will encourage their clients to consider this first and foremost when planning for their child.

4. Get help if you need it!

If you are struggling to reach a satisfactory agreement, then a family solicitor will be able to help you. Bear in mind, however, that time is quickly running out and although a letter could be sent setting out proposals for this year it may not receive a response in time. Consider how you are going to resolve the arrangements moving forward. Mediation may assist and would be a pre-requisite to applying to the Court to resolve what is a small but important issue.