The summer holidays are nearly upon us, and that can mean challenges for separated and divorced parents.  Unlike Christmas, or half term, the holidays are long, and tension can pop up in all sorts of places.  As well as actually holidays, there are also childcare, back to school and financial issues to take into account.

However forewarned is forearmed, and some thought and planning will allow you to manage six weeks relatively unscathed.

First the good news.  Separated parents can divide time between them.  Whereas before, a summer holiday would be taken together, now you will be taking separate holidays and spending time with your children alone.  This can often take up 4 of the 6 weeks, which can be a distinct advantage.

It’s not all plain sailing though, and issues can arise. Here are some tips on how you can avoid them.

Advanced planning

You should have already decided when your children will be