Section 3 - Parenting & Children

How arrangements are decided, Cafcass’ role, and the welfare principle. 1. How the Court Decides Child Arrangements – The welfare checklist in plain English. 2. Parental Responsibility Explained – Who has it, and how it affects decisions. 3. Common Parenting Schedules – What typically works for different ages. 4. Cafcass’ Role & Process – What they do, what they report, and how to prepare. 5. Children’s Voices – How children’s wishes are heard and considered. 6. When Parents Can’t Agree – Mediation, negotiation, and last resorts. 7. Safeguarding & Risk Assessments – What triggers them and what they involve. 8. Relocation, Holidays & Schooling – When disputes arise and how courts decide. 9. Effective Co-Parent Communication – Managing tone, tools, and boundaries. 10. Creating a Parenting Plan – Templates and principles the court recognises.