‘I’ve decided to go on a holiday with the children over Christmas. You can see them in the New Year.’

As the festive period draws near, navigating Christmas while divorcing or separated can be difficult. It’s crucial to discuss and agree on how they will spend time with their other parent during the holidays. For separated parents, this season often brings tension as they navigate childcare arrangements and determine the specifics of each parent’s time with the children.

Our Family Lawyer, Mandeep Randhawa shares 6 tips on how to negotiate the Christmas period.

🎄 Early Preparation:

Start planning arrangements with your ex-partner in advance. Discuss and agree on plans that work for both parties, considering factors like the children’s age, location, and your relationship.

🎄 Be Flexible:

Be prepared for flexibility as plans may need to change. Consider different options, such as alternating Christmas celebrations each year or dividing the festive period between parents.

🎄 Focus on the Children:

Place the children at the centre of your plans. Emphasise the positive aspects, like having two Christmas Days or two sets of presents. Communicate the plans with the children, considering their age and preferences.

🎄 Fairness to the Other Parent:

Acknowledge the impact of arrangements on your ex-partner. If you wouldn’t be content with the proposed plans next year, reconsider them. It’s essential to empathise and maintain a fair approach.

🎄 Stick to the Plan:

While some flexibility may be necessary, try to adhere to the agreed-upon plan. Last-minute changes can disrupt children’s feelings of stability. Consistency is crucial for a harmonious holiday.

🎄 Seek Advice Early:

If co-parenting discussions become challenging, seek advice from a family lawyer early on. Mediation, facilitated by a third party, can ease tensions and help find common ground without resorting to court proceedings.

By incorporating these tips and focusing on effective communication, separated parents can work towards a more harmonious Christmas for themselves and their children.

If you are struggling to come to an agreement, talk to our Family Law team at Garrick Law today by calling us on +44 (0)203 196 7822 or at enquiries@garricklaw.com.