The summer holidays are here, and if you’re co-parenting after a separation or divorce, you might still be figuring out how to arrange child contact over the break. It’s a common challenge, especially when plans haven’t been finalised early.
But even if you’re making arrangements mid-holiday, it’s still possible to create a plan that works for everyone, most importantly, your children. With open communication, practical planning and a willingness to focus on what’s best for the children, you can reduce stress and avoid unnecessary conflict.
Here’s what you need to know.
What the law says
Child arrangements order
If there is a Child Arrangements Order (CAO) in place, those rules must be followed—especially if holiday contact guidance is included. In cases where there’s no agreement, arrangements should ideally be agreed together. If difficulties arise, legal advice or mediation can help. A Parenting Plan can be a useful tool.
Taking children abroad
If a parent has a “lives with” CAO, they can usually take the child abroad for up to 28 days without written consent—unless the order says otherwise.
Without that order, you’ll need written permission from everyone with parental responsibility to take a child overseas.
Holidays within the UK
No formal permission is legally required for travel within the country. Still, transparent communication is best practice.
Popular summer contact arrangements
- Alternate weeks: Children spend one week with each parent, which provides consistency and fair time.
- Split holidays: One parent takes the first part of the break, the other takes the second. This is often useful for travel.
- Custom plans: Some families create flexible arrangements based on work shifts, distance between homes or the child’s age and preferences.
Making holiday arrangements work
1. Have the conversation now
If you haven’t agreed on arrangements yet, it’s not too late. Starting the discussion today can help avoid last-minute tension and confusion.
2. Keep communication clear and children-focused
Share dates, times, addresses and travel plans clearly. If talking face-to-face is hard, consider email or a co-parenting app to avoid misunderstandings.
3. Put it in writing
Once you’ve agreed, write it down. It doesn’t need to be formal, but having a clear record helps avoid disagreements.
4. Think about the child first
Consider your child’s age, preferences, needs and existing routines. Be prepared to review arrangements as children grow older and their needs and interests change. A little flexibility can make a big difference.
5. If travelling abroad
Make sure you have the right permissions and documents. It’s best to share travel details early, so the other parent knows where your child will be and how to reach you if needed.
Other practical considerations
- Childcare: Each parent is usually responsible for organising childcare during their own time.
- Work schedules: Try to be understanding if one parent has less time off work.
- Travel costs: Discuss who will pay for what in advance, especially if holidays abroad are involved.
What to avoid
- Last-minute changes can be stressful for children and parents. Try to stick to what’s been agreed.
- Vague or verbal agreements often lead to confusion. Keep things simple and written.
- Solo decisions that have a legal impact, like taking a child abroad without consent, can lead to serious consequences.
- Tense handovers can be stressful for children. Agree on specific times and locations to make things smoother.
If you’re struggling to agree
If conversations aren’t going well, you don’t have to manage it alone. Mediation is a good starting point; it is less stressful and less expensive than court. Legal advice can also help you understand your rights and options, and guide you through the next steps if needed.
If you don’t have one already, a Child Arrangements Order can be a last resort. Courts prioritise your child’s best interests, focusing on cases where there is a risk of harm to the welfare of a child. Find out more about applying for a Child Arrangements Order.
The summer holidays should be a positive time for children, no matter their family circumstances. Making clear arrangements with a child-focused approach helps co-parents create enjoyable, low-stress experiences during the school break.
If you need advice or support with child arrangements this summer, our family law team is here to help.
Phone our Newcastle-Under-Lyme office on 01782 627589 for free initial advice.