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Child contact arrangements over Christmas

Christmas is often called the most wonderful time of the year.

However, for separated parents, the season can bring its own set of challenges, particularly when making decisions on how to share time with your children during the holidays.

If you haven’t yet agreed on holiday plans, don’t worry. Our Head of Family, Stuart Daniel, is here to provide you with some practical steps to help make this Christmas easier for everyone.

Start with communication

Early and calm discussions are key. The sooner you can have a conversation about your children’s best interests and each parent’s requirements, the better.

Some of the most popular arrangements include:

Alternating Christmas Day each year.
Splitting the holiday into blocks (e.g., one parent takes Christmas Eve and Day, while the other has Boxing Day and New Year).
Sharing key days, with one parent having the morning and the other the afternoon.

In some cases where the parents still have a friendly relationship despite the separation, spending the holidays together could also be an option.

Be flexible

While having a schedule is important, Christmas is often unpredictable. From unexpected work commitments to illness or travel delays, the holiday season brings plenty of surprises.

Being flexible not only helps reduce stress but also sets a positive tone for future arrangements.

Involve your children in the decision

If your children are old enough, you should ask for their input. Involving them in the process can help them feel heard and understood.

Their happiness and comfort should be the priority when these decisions are made.

What to do if you can’t agree

Both parents with parental responsibility have equal rights to spend time with their children. However, there is no automatic right to see them on Christmas Day.

If you are unable to agree on arrangements privately, mediation or solicitor negotiation can help.

As a last resort, a court may issue a Child Arrangements Order, though this can be time-consuming and costly, so it’s always best, and typically required, to at least try other solutions first.

Technology to simplify co-parenting this Christmas

Managing co-parenting logistics during the festive season can be tricky, but Stuart recommends using technology to help.

“Apps like OurFamilyWizard are designed to make the process smoother, allowing both parents to access and update schedules, share important information, and track expenses – all in one secure place,” says Stuart.

One standout feature is its messaging system, which helps keep communication clear and respectful by monitoring the tone. This reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or unnecessary conflicts.

What’s also reassuring about OurFamilyWizard is its security. All communication, records, and updates are logged in a way that can’t be altered, providing both parents with confidence and accountability.

To explore the full range of features OurFamilyWizard offers, visit their website here.

Need advice on child arrangements this Christmas? Get in touch with Mander Hadley’s Family Solicitors.

Stuart Daniel

Director – Head of Family Department

I qualified as a Solicitor in 2006 and now specialise in divorce, financial settlements, childcare arrangements and Pre Nuptial Agreements. I have many years’ experience as a private family lawyer having worked with two other local firms before returning to Mander Hadley, where I first undertook work experience during my university studies.