As Easter approaches, families all over the United Kingdom are gearing up for a time of celebration, reflection, and togetherness, which can create a particularly difficult environment for parents who have a shared arrangement with their children.
Organising child contact over Easter can present some unique challenges , so we’ve put together five tips to help you nurture family connections over the Easter holidays.
How to Arrange Family Time Over Easter
1. Plan Ahead
There’s a generous school break of two weeks over Easter, so it’s natural for you to want to spend as much of that time with your child as possible. If you already have child arrangements order in place, this should outline what time you’re able to spend with your child over Easter.
If you don’t have an order, or would like to deviate from the plan in place, the first thing to do is talk to your co-parent.
Communication is vital when it comes to coordinating child contact. The earlier you start the conversation with the co-parent, the better. This includes discussions over scheduling, logistics, and any special traditions you may wish to incorporate into your plans.
2. Flexibility
Flexibility is essential when it comes to co-parenting, especially during the holidays. Schedules will sometimes need to be adjusted to accommodate settled households, extended family gatherings, and other commitments. It’s important to be open-minded and willing to compromise for the best interests of the children.
If you’re proactive in discussing arrangements and preferences, this is likely to minimise any last-minute conflicts and ensure a smooth, enjoyable holiday for both parents and the children.
3. Quality Time
It’s important to prioritise quality time spent together as a family, perhaps especially during holiday celebrations like Easter. Try to put aside distractions that could interfere with your bonding time, such as electronic devices, and dedicate your full attention to engaging with your children.
You could organise an Easter egg hunt in the garden, cook a meal together, or dedicate your day to another activity which will require your and your child’s full commitment.
4. Spend Time With Extended Family
Extended families offer emotional and supportive relationships for children. It’s valuable for them to spend time with them if possible, to give them the best opportunity to create strong connections.
In particular, spending time with cousins, step and half-siblings, or anyone else who might be a similar age to your child can create a great opportunity for them to feel at home with both sides of the family.
5. Talk to Your Children
It’s vital to communicate transparently with your children about the Easter arrangements; keep them updated about their schedules so they don’t suffer any distress or last-minute letdowns.
Your child is as important a part of the organisation process as you and your co-parent. Including them in the conversation will not only help minimise any confusion, but will make them feel like a respected party within the family.
How Howells can Help
At Howells, our family law solicitors have great experience in advising parents on contact over the holiday periods, including Easter.
If you require the assistance of a solicitor, get in touch with us today or complete our online enquiry form and we’ll call you back at a time that’s convenient for you.
