Summer should be a time for making memories, but for separated parents it can also bring additional challenges.

Long school holidays often mean changes to routines, longer periods spent with each parent, holidays abroad, childcare arrangements and more frequent handovers. Even families who have settled into a co-parenting routine during term time can find summer introduces new pressures.

However, with careful planning, communication and a child-focused approach, the summer holidays can be enjoyable for everyone involved.

Our family law solicitors regularly support parents to develop practical arrangements that put children's wellbeing first. Whether you're recently separated or have been co-parenting for years, these tips can help make the summer holidays run more smoothly.

Why are the summer holidays more challenging after separation?

Unlike weekends or school nights, summer holidays rarely follow a predictable routine.

Parents may need to balance:

• annual leave from work
• childcare
• family holidays
• birthdays and special occasions
• different expectations around how much time children spend with each parent
• introducing new partners or extended family

For children, especially those that are younger, moving between two homes more frequently can be emotionally tiring, even when they enjoy spending time with both parents.

Recognising that summer can feel different for everyone is often the first step towards reducing conflict.

How to manage co-parenting over the summer period

Plan early and communicate openly

One of the most effective ways to reduce stress as a co-parent is to agree plans well in advance.

Discuss things well in advance, such as:

• holiday dates
• travel arrangements
• passports and permissions
• activity schedules
• childcare
• collection and drop-off times
• how you'll communicate while children are away

Having a shared calendar can help both parents stay organised and reduce misunderstandings. This also helps children understand where they are expected to be and when.

If disagreements arise, try to keep conversations focused on practical solutions rather than past relationship issues.

Managing transition days

Handovers are often one of the most emotional parts of co-parenting, for both the parents and children.

Children may feel excited, anxious or unsettled as they move between homes. Parents can experience similar emotions, particularly if they are adjusting to spending longer periods apart from their children.

Some ways to make transitions easier include:

• keeping handovers calm and predictable, with short and sweet good byes
• avoiding difficult conversations in front of children
• allowing children time to settle into each home
• sending favourite comfort items between homes
• reassuring children that it's okay to miss the other parent
• having essential items at both homes to reduce packing stress (e.g. toothbrushes and pyjamas)

Transitions don't have to be perfect. What matters most is that children feel safe, supported and free from conflict.

Remember that transitions affect parents too

Summer can bring many mixed emotions for adults as well.

Some parents may struggle with:

• spending extended time away from their children
• feeling they are missing important memories
• loneliness during weeks when children are with the other parent
• anxiety about holiday arrangements

Acknowledging these feelings is important, but children should never feel responsible for managing them. Try to use child-free time positively, whether that's seeing friends, catching up on work, pursuing hobbies or simply taking time to recharge.

Children benefit from parents who are emotionally supported themselves.

Supporting children emotionally

Children can't always express their feelings directly. Some may become quieter and more reserved, while others find themselves more emotional or easily frustrated.

You can help children manage their emotions by:

• keeping routines where possible
• explaining plans clearly
• allowing them to ask questions
• avoiding asking them to "choose" between parents
• encouraging them to enjoy time with both families

Children should never feel guilty for having fun with the other parent. Try to engage positively when discussing what their plans are with the other parent, to let them know you are happy they enjoy their time with them.

What if you can't agree when co-parenting?

Even the most cooperative parents won't always see eye to eye. Whether it’s disagreements about how much time is spent with each parent, or how to split essential days, it’s important to come to a resolution calmly.

If communication has broken down, it's worth considering:

• mediation
• collaborative law
• obtaining legal advice before conflict escalates

Court proceedings should usually be a last resort, particularly where constructive communication remains possible. Working out how to resolve matters peacefully can also help both parents manage communication more effectively in the long-term.

How Switalskis supports successful co-parenting

At Switalskis, our family solicitors have had years of expertise working with many clients, all with different family dynamics. Whether you are going through an unmarried separation, or parents going through a divorce, our specialist team tailor their advice to best meet the needs of you and your children.

Our family solicitors also include collaboratively trained professionals who help separating couples reach workable agreements while preserving positive parenting relationships wherever possible. This often creates stronger foundations for long-term co-parenting because parents learn communication strategies that continue long after the legal process has finished.

When should you seek legal advice?

You may benefit from speaking to a family solicitor if:

• you're struggling to agree holiday arrangements
• one parent wants to take a child abroad
• existing Child Arrangements Orders aren't working
• communication has broken down
• your child's needs have changed
• you're separating and want to establish a positive co-parenting relationship from the beginning

Early advice from legal professionals can often prevent disagreements becoming more difficult to resolve later.

Helping children enjoy the summer

Successful co-parenting isn't about getting everything perfect.

It's about creating a safe environment where children feel secure, loved and supported by both parents.

By planning ahead, communicating respectfully and keeping children's needs at the centre of decisions, separated parents can help ensure the summer holidays are remembered for the right reasons.

If you're experiencing difficulties with child arrangements or would like advice on collaborative divorce , unmarried separations or co-parenting, our family law team is here to help. Simply contact our team on 0800 1380458 or fill out the form below.