Easter holiday parenting arrangements were a struggle as a separated parent. So think ahead now to the summer…
Staff at a national family charity are urging separated parents to act NOW to head off summer nightmares, by organising a Parenting Plan for the long school break.
The Easter school holiday raised tensions between many separated couples. With more Bank Holidays ahead, National Family Mediation says parents should start thinking ahead to the summer, and make suitable plans for their children in advance.
Making a Parenting Plan
“Arguments and differences between separated parents often reach breaking point during school holidays,” says Jane Robey, the charity’s CEO. “Families find parenting arrangements that worked well before have become outdated because the children are growing up, and the circumstances of their own lives have changed.
“Get ahead well before the schools break up in July and start thinking about parenting arrangements now. There’s still time to influence what too easily becomes a six-week nightmare.”
She said a number of factors force separated couples into crisis during the summer, including
- changes in established daily routines, and
- the expense of keeping family members entertained.
“Pick-up, drop-offs and living arrangements can be exposed as inadequate in the long holiday period. Frustrations and resentments resurface, with children caught in the middle.
“A Parenting Plan, agreed by both parents and with flexibility built in, is easier to achieve than many people think.
“It’s an agreement made by separated parents, covering how the children will be supported and cared for after separation or divorce. It’s easier to agree a Plan between the two of you than many people think. Its value is that you both tailor it to suit your own circumstances.
Adapting the Parenting Plan
“As the child grows up and parents’ jobs and relationships change, the Parenting Plan can be updated. The children’s needs change too as they grow up.”
National Family Mediation works right across England and Wales, and its experienced, expert family dispute specialists can help parents agree a Parenting Plan.
To find out more contact National Family Mediation on 0300 4000 636 or book an appointment using this online form
