Single-parenting after divorce or separation can be a real mixed bag of experiences, especially during school holidays when there’s the pressure of additional financial work and time pressure. This can be especially true for those who don’t have friends or family nearby to share the load when it comes to childcare and support.
With that in mind, here are some of our tips for getting the most out of the kids’ Easter holidays as a single parent.
Plan, plan, plan
Whenever we discuss how to successfully organise the child arrangements during the holidays, planning comes at the top of the list (similar to organising your Christmas arrangements). But it really is the most important thing you can do so that both you and your children can enjoy their break from school as opposed to dreading it.
Communicating suggested plans early means everyone can manage their expectations – whether that’s you, your children or your ex-partner. If you’re a working parent, it also means you’ll give yourself plenty of time to make the necessary arrangements with work, make any adjustments, and book those kids holiday clubs and camps that come in so handy at times.
The bottom line? When it comes to the holidays and child arrangements, there’s no such thing as ‘too organised’.
Get children involved in the planning
If this is the first holiday since you and your ex-partner separated, your children may feel a little trepidation about their ‘new normal’ and feel pretty out of control of their situation.
Try getting them involved in your planning so they can get excited about creating new memories with you and their other parent. You might like to sit down together and choose from some options for days out, for example, and whether there are any friends they’d like to see.
Have a back-up plan
Things don’t always go according to plan. It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case, for whatever reason, curveballs come your way (your child is unwell, or someone is no longer able to have them as arranged, for instance).
Things to do in Harrogate this Easter
We love being based in Harrogate – it’s a great place to be. If you’re struggling for ideas, Harrogate has you covered, as there are plenty of budget-friendly activities for you and the kids to enjoy throughout the holidays.
Meet the animals at Birchfield Farm
If you can get out to Summerbridge, Birchfield Farm is open seven days a week during school holidays. During these times, your children can get up close with a range of their animals.
There’s also plenty of outdoor play space for them to blow off some steam.
Happy times with the Mercer Art Gallery
The Mercer Art Gallery is hosting a series of free exhibitions and craft activities during the Easter holidays. With both indoor and outdoor options, this is a great, affordable option for those unpredictable April shower days.
Exciting Easter treats at RHS Harlow Carr
As always, Harlow Carr Gardens has a wide variety of events, activities and sessions to suit all ages this Easter (including a giant Easter egg hunt!).
Plenty of offers and promotions are available so everyone can enjoy the gardens this Easter – it never disappoints. Details can be found on the RHS website.
Co-parenting and single parenthood can be challenging. But remember, you’ve got this. Communicate with your support network and give yourself plenty of time to make arrangements, and when the kids are tired out and in bed, take some time to put your feet up and relax.
If you’re struggling with an ex-partner and child arrangements following a divorce or separation, we’re here to help at Harrogate Family Law.
