Top tips for separated couples over the summer holidays

Summer holidays are often difficult for separated couples, both parents want to spend days in the park with their children eating ice cream or going abroad for a few weeks but trying to settle on arrangements can become extremely stressful.  We have come up with a few tips to help you ensure that you and the children have the best summer yet!

1. Plan ahead

Try and book any holidays abroad in advance, don’t leave this until last minute as this may overlap in any holiday the other parent was planning. It will also allow you the opportunity to plan various activities around the children’s trips, including childcare. Remember the saying “fail to plan, plan to fail”!

2. Communication

It may be hard to keep communication open with your ex-partner, however, it is essential to ensure that the holiday goes as smoothly as possible. Discuss with the other parent where you are intending to travel, the dates and once booked make sure you give them your itinerary. To have a successful co-parenting relationship you need to be able to communicate effectively with each other.

Agree and consider how passports are going to be exchanged between you at least two weeks before your planned holiday.

3. Quality Time

Make the most of your time with the children. Children want quality time with each parent and this is your time to give them your full attention without work and personal commitments.

Arrange time for the children to see other relatives, particularly for those that have grandparents not close by, it’s a good time for them to build a relationship with them.

4. Flexibility

Many of you will work full time and will have to make alternative arrangements for the children, which means during the summer months you will need extra support.

If the children are with the other parent and you have capacity to help out with childcare or you have family or friends that could assist, be open to this.

If you are unable to resolve matters between yourselves, a family lawyer can help you through the process, which can either be supporting you through mediation, negotiation or recourse to the court.

If you would like further information on any children matter, please contact one of our family solicitors at Debenhams Ottaway.