School Holiday Planning for Separated Parents | Practical Tips and Legal Advice

At Hegarty, we understand that arranging school holiday contact for separated parents can be emotionally and logistically challenging. However, with early planning, clear communication, and a focus on your child’s wellbeing, it’s possible to create a school holiday schedule that works for everyone.

Why Planning Ahead Matters

When it comes to child holiday arrangements, it’s always best to reach an agreement with the other parent well in advance of the school break. This helps avoid last-minute stress or misunderstandings and ensures your child knows what to expect.

Ideally, parents can agree on all school holiday contact dates at the start of the year. If this isn’t feasible, aim to finalise arrangements at least 1–2 months before each holiday.

Keeping the Child’s Best Interests at Heart

Every decision around school holidays should prioritise your child’s needs, routines, and preferences. Consistency, structure, and time with both parents are key to helping children feel secure and supported.

Maintaining a fair balance—so that both parents enjoy quality time with the child during the holidays—is essential. This might mean alternating certain holidays or dividing longer breaks, such as the summer holidays, equally.

Using a Holiday Schedule Template

Creating a Holiday Schedule Template can simplify planning and provide clarity for both parents. This can include:

• Christmas and Easter arrangements (e.g., alternating Christmas Day each year)
• Equal division of half-term and summer holidays
• Travel plans and contact details when holidaying abroad
• Sharing emergency contact information
• Reference to any existing Child Arrangements Orders

If a court order is already in place, its terms must be followed unless varied by mutual agreement or court approval.

Tools to Help You Stay Organised

Several parenting apps can help you set up and manage school holiday contact arrangements. Popular options include:

• OurFamilyWizard
• AppClose
• Coparently

These tools can help streamline communication, reduce conflict, and ensure both parents stay informed and involved.

Flexibility Is Key

Life can be unpredictable—illness, travel delays, or other unforeseen issues may arise. Having a backup plan in place can help reduce disruption and avoid conflict. Always aim to communicate respectfully and directly with the other parent, rather than involving the child in disputes or using them to relay messages.

Above all, reassure your children that both parents love them and want them to enjoy their holiday time. Keeping things positive and cooperative will benefit everyone involved.

Need Legal Support With Child Holiday Arrangements?

If you’re finding it difficult to reach an agreement on school holiday contact or need advice on your legal rights and responsibilities as a separated parent, our experienced family law solicitors are here to help.

Contact Hegarty today to speak with a member of our Family Law team. We offer practical, compassionate advice tailored to your situation.