Christmas Contact

CHRISTMAS CONTACT Don’t leave it to the last minute ……..

Finding ways for children to spend time with everyone at Christmas can be stressful, particularly when parents are separated. Grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, all hope to spend a little time with the children at this magical time of year.

Planning ahead is important – leaving arrangements until the last minute can lead to tensions that may easily spill over when the handover for contact takes place. At any time, but particularly over the festive period, it will be important to ensure that no arguments take place in front of the children.

If this is your first Christmas after separation, you may wish to keep to the old traditions – or you may prefer to find new ways to celebrate Christmas. Don’t try to fill every part of the child’s day with visiting family – children need time to enjoy Christmas Day!

Some parents will be able to agree the time that children spend with each parent over the Christmas period, but if not we are here to help.

The time that a court will take to deal with such an application will depend upon the urgency of the situation. However applications to Court to resolve Christmas contact should be made as soon as possible. The later you leave the application, the more stressful it can be for parents.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss matters generally concerning your children please contact Gill Partington on 01495 763333 or by e mail to family@etlp.co.uk