Zoomer Radio: Child Access During the Holidays - Insights from Shulman & Partners

A segment on Zoomer Radio’s Weekend Review explored why the holiday season can be especially challenging for separated and divorced families. Shulman & Partners LLP shared their insights and discussed the rise in disputes over holiday parenting time, particularly as travel rebounds and families return to more traditional celebrations following years of pandemic restrictions. The conversation highlighted that December often brings an emotional mix of expectations, scheduling pressures, and family commitments, making proactive planning essential. Shulman & Partners LLP provided guidance on how separated parents and extended families can approach the holidays calmly and constructively, offering insight into parenting plans, communication strategies, and steps to prevent stressful last-minute conflicts.

In the interview, Zoomer Radio examined why holiday parenting disputes tend to spike in December and how separated families can navigate this period with less conflict. Shulman & Partners LLP noted that their office has seen a noticeable increase in holiday-related requests, especially now that travel restrictions have lifted and families are more eager to reconnect with loved ones abroad. This renewed demand for holiday trips has intensified disagreements between co-parents who may have different expectations about how Christmas and New Year’s should be spent.

The discussion emphasized that, while court is always an option, it should remain a last resort. Many disputes escalate simply because parents begin negotiating too late. By budgeting enough time in advance to talk through schedules, parents can avoid unnecessary urgency and reduce the chances of an eleventh-hour court application. Early planning is particularly important when travel is involved, as shifting itineraries can strain already complicated arrangements.

They also explained how these disputes affect grandparents and extended family members. Although direct grandparent contact applications are less common, disagreements between parents often emerge from each side wanting their children present for extended-family traditions. Legislative changes in recent years have also provided clearer frameworks for grandparent contact when appropriate, though the primary focus remains on the best interests of the child.

A key takeaway from the segment was the importance of building detailed and practical holiday parenting plans. These plans should be tailored to the family’s traditions, religious observances, and logistics. Specific dates often spark the most tension, such as who has the children on December 24 versus December 25. Alternating these dates annually or structuring the schedule around meaningful moments, such as gift-opening, can help prevent repeated conflict.

Self-care and emotional awareness were also highlighted. Holidays can amplify stress, especially when children are adapting to new family structures. Parents were encouraged to model calm, optimistic behaviour and to use supportive resources when needed. Consulting a lawyer ahead of time can help families understand their options, anticipate potential challenges, and avoid costly emergencies.

Listen to the full Zoomer Radio segment here. 

This media appearance is part of Shulman & Partners LLP’s ongoing contributions to Canadian family law discussions. Explore more of our media features in our In the Media  archive.