The festive season is often considered a time for celebration and family, but for separated or divorced parents, it can also bring challenges.
December often highlights the emotional and practical complexities of co-parenting, particularly when arrangements for children are involved. The emotional pressure, financial strain, and expectations around family traditions can make the festive holidays one of the most stressful times of year.
So how do you keep things calm, fair and child-focused? Let’s look at some practical and legal guidance.
Why Festive Co-Parenting Arrangements Can Be Difficult
Holiday time highlights key questions, such as:
• Who will the children spend time with and when?
• How will the time be divided fairly?
• What happens with travel or extended family commitments?
• How do you balance different traditions?
These issues can feel heightened, especially if it’s the first festive period after separation.
The key to reducing stress is to plan early, talk openly, and keep communication focused.
Communication Is Key
The best way to avoid disagreement is with early and honest discussion.
It helps to:
• revisit any Child Arrangements Orders
• check your Parenting Plan
• confirm dates in advance
• and raise any changes as soon as possible
Flexibility and cooperation go a long way, particularly at Christmas.
Top Tip
If parents can reach an agreement about the arrangements for their children, it’s a good idea to record these in a Parenting Plan. A Parenting Plan is a written agreement to support a co-parenting approach and can cover a range of practical issues for your child.
Here’s a link to a free Parenting Plan
How the Law Approaches Holiday Contact
In England and Wales, the child’s welfare is always the court’s paramount concern.
Judges expect parents to:
• support the child’s relationship with both parents, where safe
• avoid placing children in the middle of conflict
• and prioritise their emotional wellbeing
Courts generally encourage arrangements that allow children to spend meaningful time with each parent across the festive period — even if not always on the exact dates each parent ideally wants.
When Disagreements Arise
Tensions can happen, even with good intentions. Before considering court proceedings, think about:
🕊 Mediation — a supportive space to explore solutions collaboratively.
💬 Negotiation through solicitors — helpful where communication is difficult or strained.
Final Thoughts
While the festive season may look different after separation, it can still be meaningful. With thoughtful planning and goodwill, families can create new traditions and ensure that both parents and children experience the joy and stability that everyone deserves at this special time of year.
If you have questions about festive co-parenting or any other family law concern, feel free to get in touch for an initial conversation at no cost.
Taking that first step can make a big difference — helping you understand your options and move forward with confidence.