Making Christmas Merry: 12 Days of Child-Focused Family Law Tips

The holiday season is cherished by many, bringing moments of joy, connection, and celebration. While every family is unique, for those navigating life after separation or divorce, it can feel overwhelming and become a time of heightened emotions, stress, and complex dynamics.

With these challenges in mind, keeping the child’s best interests at the heart of every decision is key. If parenting orders or a mutually agreed parenting plan are in place, these must be followed as breaching them can have serious consequences. If your arrangement is informal, read on. We’re sharing our 12 days of Child-Focused Family Law tips to help navigate the season for a smooth, child-focused Christmas during and after separation.

Important: If you’re not in a safe situation to make arrangements and plans, please seek immediate support from a family lawyer who can assist you in protecting your and your children’s wellbeing.

The 12 Days of Child-Focused Family Law Tips

Day 1: Plan and be reasonable

Christmas can be joyful but also stressful, and for separated families, having a clear parenting plan early helps reduce tension and lets your kids enjoy the magic of the season. Consider spreading celebrations across days: Christmas Eve and morning with one parent, and afternoon and dinner with the other, or alternating each year. Early planning also allows you to seek advice from a family lawyer or attend a mediation if needed.

Circumstances can change, so being open, understanding, and flexible can make all the difference if an unexpected situation arises. Children benefit most when parents work together amicably, keeping the focus on the children’s interests and enjoyment of the holiday season.

Day 2: Put children at the heart of family choices

Creating happy memories for children should always be the priority. Support meaningful relationships with both parents and focus on what works best for your children. Whether that is reducing travel between households or being flexible with the dates and plans to celebrate. Keep their well-being at the centre of your plans so they experience the magic of Christmas with each parent.

Day 3: Communication is Key

Clear, respectful communication is key to avoiding misunderstandings and holiday stress. Tools such as co-parenting apps  can help keep discussions organised and focused on the children’s needs. Whether you communicate via text, email, or an app, aim to avoid exposing the children to any conflict and create positive experiences for your children.

Day 4: Seek legal advice if necessary

If communication attempts fail or parenting issues are unresolved, consult an experienced family lawyer as soon as possible. They can help facilitate communication with the other parent, and addressing disputes early ensures you have time to work through them and avoid disruptions to the holiday season.

Day 5: Enlist support

Sharing plans and worries with family and friends lets them support you and ease holiday stress. If you need extra help, reach out to support services for separated families.

Day 6:  Be mindful of Christmas closures

The holiday season is a time for rest and celebration, but many essential services, such as support centres, mediators, and family lawyers, take a break too. To avoid stress, plan ahead and check closure dates before Christmas. If an urgent situation arises or there’s a risk of significant harm, contact the police without delay. For other family disputes or challenges, consider reaching out to a family lawyer in the new year when services resume.

MCW Lawyers will be closed from 5.00PM on Tuesday, 23 December, and will reopen Monday, 5 January 2026.

Day 7: Create new and respect existing family traditions

While it’s important to respect traditions and customs that hold meaning for each parent and their families, separation also offers an opportunity to create new traditions with your children. Whether it’s going to see Christmas lights or enjoying a cozy Christmas movie together, starting fresh traditions can make the season feel exciting and special, even if Christmas looks different from what you imagined.

Day 8: Encourage contact with both parents and avoid criticising the other parent.

Christmas is a time for creating joyful memories with your children. It’s natural for them to want to share the excitement with both parents. Try to arrange a suitable time to connect by phone or video call to help them feel closer to both parents. Also remember to speak kindly and avoid negative comments about the other parent. This helps your children feel secure and loved. By focusing on positivity, you create a supportive environment that helps your children enjoy the magic of Christmas.

Day 9: Practice Self-Care

The holiday season after separation or divorce can be challenging, especially if you won’t be seeing your children at Christmas. Make sure you look after yourself and surround yourself with family and friends. Enjoy activities you love and treat yourself kindly. The better you feel, the better you can support your children.

Day 10: Plan fun holiday activities together

Christmas is just one day, but the festive period and school holidays stretch through January, giving you plenty of time to make special moments. Plan simple, fun activities like a beach day, Christmas crafting, baking treats, or a visit to see Santa. These shared moments help your children feel connected and joyful, and they’re often the memories they will cherish long after Christmas Day.

Day 11: Be thoughtful when introducing new partners

The holiday season can be exciting and emotional, so it’s best to approach introductions gently. Christmas isn’t the ideal time for surprises, especially when children are adjusting to new family dynamics. Consider how the timing might feel from your children’s perspective. A slower, more considered approach helps everyone feel more secure and supported during the holidays.

Day: 12 Focus on what truly matters

Christmas is about creating positive memories, especially in a season centred on family, love, and connection. Keep your children at the heart of your plans so they can enjoy the magic of Christmas with both sides of the family. Small moments of joy, understanding, and cooperation go a long way in making the holidays feel special.

We hope these tips help you get through the festive season a little smoothly with your family. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year.

To discuss your situation or book an appointment please contact our family law team at MCW Lawyers on 02 9589 6666 or email us at mcw@mcwlaw.com.au

Disclaimer

This article provides general information only and should not be considered legal advice.