Coordinating a schedule for the Easter holidays after a separation or divorce can be challenging, but with planning and communication, you can create a positive experience for your child(ren). Ontario family law prioritizes the child’s best interests, encouraging parents to work together to ensure meaningful time with both parents—especially during holidays. To help guide you through, these are a few points we like to raise with our clients as they work through planning the Easter holiday schedule. Discussing these with your ex can help make your kids feel comfortable and aware of where they will be headed throughout the weekend. Which in turn helps cut down on their anxieties and deal positively with the change.
Creating a Clear Easter Holiday Plan and Following It
One of the best ways to prevent holiday conflicts is by having a clear schedule in your Parenting Plan that outlines how holidays like Easter will be shared. A Parenting Plan is a formal agreement that is created between parents, through mediation and with legal assistance, when they are divorced or separated.
Clear details for the Easter holiday should be included in your Parenting Plan outlining:
- Holiday Schedule – Specify where your children will spend Easter and other holidays.
- Pick-Up and Drop-Off – Establish travel arrangements to avoid confusion.
- Family Traditions and Events – Take into account school activities, family dinners, and religious celebrations.
- Communication Guidelines – How to set up a plan to confirm arrangements in advance, whether through email or messaging.
Making Co-Parenting Easier During the Easter Holidays
Ontario courts encourage parents to work together to develop these plans while keeping the child’s well-being the top priority. How can you do this?
Put Your Child First. Focus on what’s best for your child(ren), ensuring they get quality time with both parents.
Be Flexible. Plans may need adjustments due to unexpected events like travel delays or new family commitments.
Respect Traditions. If Easter has special religious or cultural significance, work together to make sure your child can participate in key celebrations.
Communicate Early. Avoid last-minute stress by discussing holiday schedules with your children well in advance.
Handling Travel During the Holidays
If your Easter holiday schedule includes travel, be sure to share travel details, including the destination and contact information, in advance. Some Parenting Plans require consent from the other parent before travel. If traveling outside Canada, the parent must have written, notarized consent from the other parent in order to do so.
Resolving Disputes About the Easter Holidays
Despite the best planning, disagreements can happen. If conflict arises:
- Try Mediation: Alternative dispute resolution can help parents reach a fair agreement
- Seek Legal Help: If disputes persist, a family lawyer can provide guidance
- Consider Parenting Coordination: This is a licensed mental health, legal, or certified family mediation professional who can assist in managing and enforcing parenting plans
If a parent does not follow the agreed-upon schedule, the other parent may seek enforcement through the courts, which could result in compensatory parenting time or other legal consequences.
Supporting Your Child Through the Easter Holidays
Easter should be an enjoyable time for your child, even if it’s being celebrated in two different homes. Having two Easter egg hunts may not make your dentist happy but it will give your child a fun experience in both households. Parents can also help by reminding them they are loved and supported, letting them express their feelings about holiday plans, avoiding arguments with your ex in front of them, and keeping bedtime and meal schedules consistent.
The Easter Holiday Should be Fun For Your Child But If Conflicts Arise, Our Family Law Team Is Here For You
By planning ahead and keeping communication open, co-parenting during the Easter holiday can be a smooth and positive experience for everyone involved. At Scharff Nyland Chambers LLP, we can help you set up a Parenting Plan that includes a holiday schedule that works for everyone – and support you if those plans get challenged.
Our family law lawyers serve the GTA, Simcoe and Grey Counties through our offices in Barrie, Toronto, Wasaga Beach, and Collingwood. Set up an appointment today through our website, or call us at 1-866-721-5851, and let’s make sure that Easter is fun and stress-free for your kids.
***The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have legal questions, we strongly advise you to contact us.
