So, you plan to take your child on holiday. Just the mere thought of it may bring you out in hives! Length of holiday, the age of your child and time of year should be taken into consideration.

Is this your first holiday alone with your child?

You might be an old pro at being alone with your child for any great length of time, but for many fathers there’s a good chance that this trip may be the first of its kind. More importantly, it might also be the first time that your child is away from their mother.

Where are you going?

Do you have a destination in mind? You might be considering somewhere that requires passports and insurance. Perhaps you have a court agreement in place that requires permissions to be sought or approval might be needed to take your child out of school.

In some countries, travelling as a single parent requires you to have written permission from the absent mother / father. If you have a different surname to your child, you may find yourself having to prove parentage at check-in desks, hotels etc.

The practicalities.

Do you need to consider pre-planning for immunisations and medication?

Ok – now let’s think about who is going? Have you thought about likes, dislikes and hobbies? Will there be other children on the holiday? Are you thinking camping or five star all inclusive? Do you need specialist clothing and equipment?

Great – you’re all organised. Now imagine, you have planned, packed, travelled and are on your holiday. Have you agreed with your ex-partner an acceptable communication plan? If there is going to be phone communication, have you decided how often, the time of day and for how long? Will a phone call to mum before bedtime settle and soothe your child, or will it have the opposite effect? This might not matter if your child is a teenager but putting a sensible plan in place can be imperative if you have a young child.

Do you want more practical help?
Contact me to schedule an initial consultation

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