At Relate London NW, Hertfordshire Mid Thames and Bucks, we are urging separated parents to plan ahead now for the school summer holidays.

School holidays bring a change of routine, living arrangements that work well in term-time can prove inadequate in the summer.

As accredited family mediators we are often asked for help by separated parents who cannot agree between themselves what will work best for the children during the school holidays.

Avoid rising stress levels

The time spent with each parent during this period can be tricky to agree and, as July approaches, the stress levels can rise.

It’s not just about who will look after the children day-to-day. You may also need to consider special arrangements for one or other parent taking the children away for a summer break.

And there are added complications for example:

• How will any summer breaks be funded?
• How might a parent’s new partner fit into the equation?
• What role might grandparents play during the school holiday?

We can help you tailor a plan that fits your unique family circumstances, and our advice is to get in touch soon, Don’t leave it until the last minute.

Making the arrangements in good time will give certainty to both parents, bringing you peace of mind. And it means the children know what is coming in the weeks ahead.

Anyone wanting to find out more about the benefits of family mediation offered by our Relate mediation service can visit Mediation (relate.org.uk) or call 0300 0032324 Option 2.