Advice on surviving the summer holidays for separated parents

While summer holidays are a time many look forward to, they can pose unique challenges for separated parents. Juggling work, managing expectations, coordinating childcare, and dealing with additional expenses can all add stress to the holiday season.

To help make things easier, here are some practical tips to help you navigate the holidays with less friction and more focus on your children.

Prioritise the Children

Keep your children’s needs at the heart of all planning and discussions. Avoid using holiday arrangements as a battleground and instead strive to be respectful of your ex’s perspective. Children benefit most when both parents cooperate and support a sense of continuity, so try to maintain routines such as clubs, sports and activities that they enjoy.

Plan Well in Advance

It may not always be easy to communicate with your ex, but early planning can prevent last-minute stress. Agree on a communication method that works best for both of you whether it’s email, text, phone calls or face-to-face meetings without the children present.

Consider using a shared calendar to track non-negotiable dates like holidays, clubs, events, or pre-booked trips. This provides a clear framework for scheduling the rest. Since holidays can also bring financial strain, try to start budgeting or saving ahead of time.

Once plans are agreed, share them with your children in advance. Knowing what to expect helps them feel more secure and gives everyone time to review and adjust arrangements if needed.

Be Flexible and Creative

Holiday plans can change so stay as flexible as possible. It can also help to create new traditions that your children can look forward to and help plan. This could mean staying with grandparents, teaming up with other families for shared childcare, or taking advantage of local community programmes and subsidised activities.

If you work from home, consider creating an activity timetable that allows you to balance work and quality time with your children.

Travelling Abroad

If either parent is planning to take the children abroad, remember that consent is required from the other parent (or anyone with parental responsibility). Always have this conversation before making any bookings. It’s also helpful to set up regular times for the children to stay in touch with the other parent while they’re away.

Consider Mediation

If reaching an agreement is proving difficult, support may come from a neutral third party such as a trusted friend or family member. Alternatively, professional family mediation offers a structured, child-focused space to work through disagreements and develop a workable holiday plan.

If you are struggling with issues arising from separation and divorce, we offer a no obligation initial consultation for a fixed fee of £100 (incl. VAT), for up to one hour. At this meeting, we can advise you on all the issues relating to your personal circumstances, allowing you to make informed decisions moving forward.

To book an appointment please call 01444 472700, email us at [email protected] or complete the form below.