Christmas is all about family, but for separated parents, the holiday season can bring its own set of challenges. Ensuring a joyful holiday for your children starts with understanding your rights and responsibilities.
Under the Care of Children Act 2004, the welfare and best interests of the child are paramount. If you don’t have a care arrangement in place, now is the time to communicate openly with your co-parent. Discuss where and how your child will spend Christmas, any cultural or religious traditions you want them to experience, any travel plans, and more. Remember, collaboration is key – both parents need to work together to create a plan. Keep in mind that flexibility and cooperation can help create a positive experience for your children. Prioritising their happiness can make all the difference during this special time of year. Happy holidays for the children often start with parents who work together.
However, we also understand that this may not work for all families. If you are struggling to reach an agreement, or if any urgent or safety issues come up, we recommend seeking legal advice from a family lawyer straight away.
If you would like some advice, please contact our Family Law team