For separated or divorced parents with school-aged children, March Break can sneak up fast and when it does, it often brings confusion, stress, or last-minute disagreements about who has the children and when.
That’s why March Break shouldn’t be treated as an afterthought. It works best when it’s clearly included in a holiday parenting time schedule, just like summer vacation or winter holidays. When the plan is settled in advance — ideally with the guidance of a family law lawyer — it helps create consistency for children and reduces unnecessary tension between parents.
Why It’s Important to Make a March Break Plan
At its core, planning for March Break is about giving kids stability while making sure both parents have meaningful time with them.
When the week is built into the parenting schedule, it helps:
- Balance parenting time outside of school routines
- Avoid last minute disputes over how to split time over the break
- Make it easier to plan trips, camps, or childcare
- Clarify responsibilities for costs and logistics
- Support children’s sense of security through predictability
Children benefit when they know what to expect. A clear schedule removes uncertainty and allows them to enjoy time with each parent without being caught in the middle of adult conflict.
Two Common Ways to Share March Break
Every family situation is different, but most holiday parenting time schedules handle March Break in one of two ways.
Some parents choose to split the week. In many cases, one parent has the children from the Friday after school lets out until mid-week, and the other takes over for the remainder of the break. This approach allows both parents to enjoy dedicated time each year.
Others prefer to alternate the entire week from year to year. For example, one parent has March Break this year, the other has it next year, and the pattern continues. This option can make it easier to plan travel, since one parent has the full week available.
The right choice depends on what works best for the children and the practical realities of each household. A family law lawyer can help parents decide which structure fits their circumstances and ensures the arrangement is clearly written into parenting time arrangements.
Planning Travel? There’s One Extra Step Involved
If travel outside Canada is part of the plan, there’s an added legal requirement. The travelling parent must have a signed and notarized Consent to Travel from the other parent. Without it, border officials may refuse entry or exit.
Another reason to discuss March Break travel plans early is that it allows everyone extra time to make arrangements, sort out travel documents, and avoid rushed conversations that can turn into disputes.
When March Break Becomes a Source of Conflict
Sometimes, one parent may resist agreeing to travel or parenting time during March Break. When that happens, it’s important to keep communication in writing and review the parenting time arrangements for any clauses related to travel or notice requirements.
If concerns continue, working with a family law lawyer can help move things forward through:
- Negotiation between lawyers
- Mediation
- A court application
Ontario courts generally look at what’s in the best interests of the child. In many cases, judges recognize the value of children experiencing vacations and time away, as long as there are no safety concerns or risk factors involved.
If consent is being unreasonably withheld and travel plans are time-sensitive, legal advice should be sought right away. Acting early allows for more options and helps avoid unnecessary disappointment for the children.
Early Planning Makes Things Easier For Parents and Children
March Break may only be one week on the calendar, but for children adjusting to life in two households, it carries real importance. When it’s thoughtfully included in a holiday parenting time schedule, it becomes a chance for connection rather than arguments.
If questions about March Break parenting time are causing conflict, speaking with one of our family law lawyers at Scharff Nyland Chambers LLP can help clarify your options and ensure arrangements are being enforced. We have offices in Barrie, Toronto, Wasaga Beach, and Collingwood. To speak with one of our lawyers, call 1-866-721-5851, email reception@sncfamilylaw.com, or book a consultation through our website.
This blog is for general information only and is not legal advice. For advice about your specific situation, please speak with a family law lawyer.
