Philippa Kum and Eri Horrocks outline top tips for co-parents on agreeing arrangements for children in EPrivateClient

Philippa and Eri’s article article was published in eprivateclient, 9 May 2022, and can be seen here.

Philippa Kum and Eri Horrocks, Associates in our Family & Relationships department, offer practical guidance for co-parents navigating the complexities of post-separation arrangements for their children.

They emphasise that the children’s needs must remain central to all decisions. This involves communicating with children in an age-appropriate way, ensuring they feel secure and not burdened with decision-making.

A united front from both parents, where possible, helps foster stability and reassurance. Parents are encouraged to allow children the space to express their emotions and to avoid placing blame or conflict in front of them.

The article also highlights the importance of creating practical, day-to-day arrangements that align with the children’s routines and minimise disruption. Planning ahead for special occasions and maintaining consistent rules across households can provide a sense of continuity. Once an agreement is reached, it should be recorded in writing, ideally in a Parenting Plan, and supported by ongoing, constructive communication.

Tools such as co-parenting apps can help manage logistics and reduce misunderstandings. If direct discussions prove difficult, involving a mediator or family consultant can be a valuable step. Ultimately, while court intervention is an option, many families can avoid this by following these tips and seeking appropriate support.

Read the full article on the eprivateclient website [subscription required].