Child arrangements over the Christmas holidays
The run-up to Christmas can place added pressure on separated parents. Usual routines shift, work patterns change, and expectations around the festive period often heighten. Having clear plans for the children can help reduce stress and make sure holidays remain enjoyable for them.
How a Child Arrangements Order Can Help
If there is already a Child Arrangements Order, its terms must be followed. Many orders include specific provisions for Christmas, offering clarity and certainty at what can otherwise be a contentious time.
If no order exists, parents will need to agree arrangements themselves. There is no automatic formula, so early discussions are essential. Planning is vital where travel or visits to extended family are involved. Keeping one another informed helps manage expectations and supports a positive co-parenting relationship.
Rules on Taking Children Abroad Over Christmas
Whether it is Christmas or any other time of year, taking a child abroad usually requires the consent of all those with parental responsibility. It's best to get written consent before making any bookings. Some countries require evidence of this at the border.
Travelling without the necessary consent can, in some circumstances, amount to child abduction - a criminal offence. Obtaining agreement at the outset avoids unnecessary risk and complications.
Examples of Christmas Contact Schedules
There isn’t one “right” arrangement. What matters most is what works for the children and what is manageable for both households. Some common arrangements include:
· Christmas Day with one parent, Boxing Day with the other
· Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with one parent, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with the other
· Alternating the full Christmas period each year
· Splitting Christmas Day, for example, waking up with one parent and joining the other later for lunch or celebrations
Practicality is key. Splitting the day may only be realistic where parents live close to one another. Longer uninterrupted periods can be more suitable where distance or logistics make handovers challenging.
Parents should try to stay flexible. Plans sometimes need to adapt, for instance, if a child becomes unwell. In such cases, video or phone contact can help maintain continuity for the other parent.
Clear, courteous communication is essential. Many parents find that confirming arrangements in writing, whether via email or a parenting app, helps reduce misunderstandings and keeps discussions focused.
Does the Child Have a Role in Arrangements?
Children’s views matter, but they should not be placed in the position of choosing between their parents. What they need is stability and reassurance. A calm, cooperative approach between adults usually leads to sensible compromises and fewer difficulties.
If direct discussions stall, a family law solicitor can help move negotiations forward. Mediation is another constructive option, offering a neutral space to reach an agreement without court involvement.
What to Do If You Have Safeguarding Concerns
If new concerns arise about a child’s safety, such as exposure to abusive behaviour, substance misuse, or criminal activity, arrangements for Christmas may need to be reconsidered. Until those concerns are assessed, the child will usually stay with the parent who does not present the risk.
We can support you with a full range of non-court processes, including mediation and solicitor‑led negotiation. Where court intervention becomes necessary, we are equipped to guide you through that as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Christmas Work with Split Parents?
Christmas can be emotionally charged for separated families. Ideally, arrangements are agreed well in advance - either through a Child Arrangements Order or by mutual agreement. Some families alternate the holiday each year; others share the day itself. Where arrangements are set out in a legal order, those terms must be followed. Where they are not, cooperation and early communication generally lead to better outcomes for everyone, especially the child.
Can My Ex Stop Me from Seeing My Child at Christmas?
If a Child Arrangements Order gives you scheduled time over Christmas, the other parent cannot lawfully refuse it. Without an order, disagreements can arise more easily, so a constructive discussion, possibly supported by a mediator, can help reach a workable agreement.
Can I Take My Child on Holiday with a Child Arrangements Order?
Travel within the UK is usually straightforward, provided it does not conflict with the terms of the order.
Travel abroad typically requires consent from everyone with parental responsibility, even where a Child Arrangements Order exists. If consent is refused, you may need to apply to the court for permission. Securing agreement early helps avoid complications when arranging travel.
If you’d like the support of our Family Law experts in applying for a Child Arrangements Order, or any other matter relating to child custody; our team can help.
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