While the Easter holiday has provided a time to enjoy some unseasonally warm weather and as much chocolate as you can eat, it may have also been a test of provisions for many separated parents.

Whether you are newly separated or have been for some time, the Easter holiday will have required some form of child arrangement to ensure that your child spends time with both parents.

While you may have been a workable solution for the shorter break, the summer holiday is approaching and may need more consideration.

We can help you prepare and find a solution that works for all involved.

Why are school holiday arrangements challenging?

School term times have predictability that allows you to establish well-defined routines that make arrangements easier to set up.

However, the holidays can cause disruption as the wants and needs of you and your ex-partner may clash.

Disagreements can arise around the division of time or even over the costs of activities, trips or holiday clubs.

How can mediation help?

Finding a clear path forward with child arrangements can be difficult, especially if your ex-partner is hostile or non-communicative.

Rather than going it alone, seeking professional legal support can open the door to new ways of managing the situation, including mediation.

Mediation provides a neutral space where both parents can discuss the issue, assisted by a trained professional who can ensure that discussions stay constructive.

This means that you will have dedicated time and space to work out holiday schedules, travel arrangements, childcare responsibilities, the division of costs and any other issues you may have.

The mediator will not take sides but will work to find the most effective arrangement that works for everyone.

Is mediation the right choice for my child arrangements?

Mediation is generally a more cost-effective, efficient and less stressful alternative to court proceedings.

The decision-making remains with you and your ex-partner and this can facilitate a more cooperative approach that aims to reduce conflict in the long run.

This is mirrored by the success of arrangements established through mediation, as it feels less like either you or your ex-partner are having decisions made for you.

There is also an additional flexibility with mediation, as sessions can take place in person or remotely and older children may be given the opportunity to share their views.

At Palmers Solicitors, we strive to find the best solution for the people of Essex.

We can support you through the mediation process or with any other issue related to your child arrangements.

As the summer holiday approaches, we hope to help reduce the stress of the situation by ensuring that you have established a workable solution for you and your children. Speak to our team today to take stress out of your summer child arrangements.