Christmas is so magical for children – the lights, the excitement, the traditions and the quality time. But for separated parents, it can also be one of the most stressful and emotional times of the year . Deciding where the children will wake up, how the day will be shared, and how to keep everything fair can create real anxiety.
At First Line Family Law, our family law solicitors completely understand how hard this can feel. As a supportive team, we work closely with parents every year to help them navigate the festive period with kindness and child-focused solutions. Our family law solicitors in Cardiff regularly help families agree arrangements that feel fair and work smoothly for everyone involved.
Why Christmas Arrangements Can Be So Emotional
Christmas is full of meaning. The traditions, cosy mornings and excitement on your children’s faces means so much to families. After a separation, both parents often want to continue those special moments and that is completely natural.
But challenges can arise when both parents want the magic of Christmas Eve and Christmas Morning, or your may have different traditions or even live far away from one another. It is a lot for families.
What are the usual Christmas Arrangements?
There’s no “perfect” answer on how Christmas should be arrangements, but these are the arrangements we see most often:
- Alternating Christmas Days – One parent has Christmas Day one year, the other next year. Many people find it easier to alternate Christmas Day each year because it means the children can spend the entire day with their parent uninterrupted. Often, when families agree to do this, the other parent will have a ‘second Christmas day’ on Boxing Day.
- Splitting the Day – Christmas morning with one parent, the afternoon with the other. This works best when you live close by. Whilst many families prefer this, some people feel that it makes the day interrupted.
The most important thing is finding an arrangement that suits the children best.
Tips for Co-Parenting at Christmas
- Start conversations early
Waiting until December often creates panic and tension. Earlier is always better. It is best to agree how Christmas will be dealt with permanently, rather than dealing with it each year. Usually, there is an alternating arrangement so there is no need to re-negotiate each year.
Be open to new traditions
- Lots of children love celebrating “two Christmases”! Magic doesn’t have to happen only on the 25th. Father Christmas does make lots of second visits on Christmas Night ready for another Christmas Morning on Boxing Day.
Keep communication child-focused
- Try to frame discussions around what will feel most settled and enjoyable for the children.
Stay flexible
- Plans sometimes need tweaking, especially when extended families are involved.
Use mediation if needed
- If conversations feel stuck, mediation can help you find a fair, neutral solution without rushing to court.
When You Can’t Reach an Agreement
If you are still not able to agree matters, you may need to consider court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we have to share Christmas Day?
No. Whilst many families choose to alternate the day each year, some prefer to give each parent a full Christmas every other year. This can be less disruptive for the children and avoids them being moved on Christmas Day itself.
Can we split Christmas Day?
Yes. Many families do this successfully, especially if parents live close by. One parent may have the children from Christmas Eve to midday, and the other from midday to Boxing Day.
Can we celebrate Christmas on a different day?
Absolutely. Children often love having a “second Christmas”! The magic of Christmas isn’t tied to a single date.
What if my ex refuses to discuss arrangements?
Try putting your proposals in writing. If there is still no progress, mediation or court may be the next step.
Can I apply to court last minute?
You can, but it is not ideal. Courts are extremely busy in December, so it’s always best to take advice early. Very often the court do not see Christmas as urgent.
How Our Family Law Solicitors in Cardiff and Bristol Can Support You
At First Line Family Law, we know Christmas is about memories, not arguments. Our friendly, specialist team will help you understand your options, communicate clearly, reduce conflict, and prioritise the children’s experience above everything else.
We can assist with:-
- Christmas and holiday contact negotiations
- Child Arrangements Orders
- Urgent court applications
- Mediation referrals
- Parenting plans
- Advice on enforcing or varying existing orders
Why Families Trust First Line Family Law
We’re incredibly proud that First Line Family Law is:
- Recognised as a leading family law firm in Wales
- Ranked in The Legal 500
- Winner of Solicitor of the Year at the Welsh Law Awards
Our reputation, client reviews, and proven results speak for themselves. Whether you’re looking for the family law solicitors in Cardiff or family law solicitors in Bristol, we’re here to guide you with expertise, empathy, and unwavering support.
