Back to routine - co-parenting in 2026

Written by Megan Young

As we hit February, most families are getting back into their normal school and work routines, following a slow and disrupted start to the year due to the extreme winter weather.  

For those co-parenting children following separation, agreed care patterns and structures can provide stability and security for children.  Consistent boundaries and routines across both households can help minimise any conflict that can result from differing parenting styles.

Below are some of the practical matters that co-parenting will want to consider, having regard to the views of the children as appropriate:

1. The childcare arrangements. Every family is different, and it is important to consider what arrangements best meet the needs of the children, whilst having regard to parents’ work commitments and other practical matters.
   
   
2. Handover arrangements.  A smooth and conflict-free transition between homes helps promote a sense of security for children.
   
   
3.  Methods of sharing important information relating to the children, including information relating to health, education and general welfare.  Some parents communicate face to face or by telephone, but others prefer written communication such as text messages, WhatsApp or email.  There are also various Apps available for communicating and sharing information.
   
   
4. Child aliment or maintenance.  A good start when considering payment of child maintenance is the Child Maintenance Service website.
   
   
5. Payment of costs relating to the children’s attendance at nursery, school, before and after school care and extra-curricular activities.  Consider your respective income and outgoings and how the responsibility for these commitments can be shared fairly.
   
   
6. Practical parenting matters, such as mealtimes, bedtimes, homework, use of mobile phones and screen-time/social media. My colleague, Nicola Watson, has produced a helpful article with further information on this point.
   
   
7. School holiday arrangements for your children, including travel outside of the United Kingdom.  All parties with Parental Responsibilities and Parental Rights must consent to such travel taking place. Consider sharing important holiday information such as accommodation, flight and other relevant details well in advance of the trip and secure consent as early as possible.

Achieving a harmonious co-parenting arrangement, which meets the needs of the children, can be challenging.  Seeking practical legal advice at an early opportunity in relation to parental responsibilities and rights and financial obligations can prove invaluable.  If you wish advice from one of our family lawyers specialising in child-related matters and methods of dispute resolution, please get in touch.