What can I do if the other parent does not stick to plans?

Some parents love spontaneity and others prefer predictability. However, conflict can arise when there is disagreement about the level of flexibility appropriate to the circumstances.

Some parents are able to have a high level of give and take, where little negotiation is necessary in changing days or making arrangements for holidays. Some parents may feel taken advantage of it the other parent is constantly changing plans in a way that is unhelpful.

Ideally, parents would be able to build enough trust to agree on the best level of notice for changes and flexibility to allow for spontaneous fun in life. When this is not the case, it may be appropriate to formalise arrangements into a parenting plan.

A parenting plan is the document you receive after mediation. It includes all the things that parents agreed about, and gives parents a framework and set of boundaries about how they can work together. They can be changed if parents agree to change parts, or formalised into Consent Orders in a court.

If the other parent will not stick to plans, mediation is a great way to clarify the give and take necessary for the children's benefit.

If you would like any information about how mediation can work in your situation, please contact our office for a free fifteen minute phone consultation.