Sharing Christmas Smoothly: Finding a Balance That Works for Your Family

With Christmas on the horizon, it’s completely understandable that questions about where the children will spend their time may start to crop up. These conversations with your ex-partner aren’t always easy, but taking a calm, early and child-focused approach can make the world of difference.

Every family is unique, so there’s no “one size fits all”. For some, alternating the Christmas weeks feels right. For others, it might work better for the children to spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with one parent, and Boxing Day with the other, swapping the following year. What matters most is finding an arrangement that feels fair, balanced and centred around the children’s needs.

If you do reach an agreement, it can be really helpful to write it down. It doesn’t need to be formal - just something both of you can refer back to, including any time the children might like to check in with the other parent by phone or video call. A little clarity goes a long way in keeping things peaceful.

Of course, not every discussion is smooth sailing. If you’re finding it difficult to agree, mediation can be a supportive space to explore options together with the help of a neutral professional. And if all else fails - which we hope it doesn’t - a mediator can guide you on the next steps should court become necessary.

If you’d like to talk things through or need a bit more guidance, our warm and approachable Family Team is here to help. Feel free to get in touch - we’re always happy to listen.