A child arrangements consent order is a legally binding agreement that sets out where your children will live, when they’ll spend time with each parent, and how practical decisions will be made. It’s designed to give children stability and clarity, while helping parents avoid conflict and uncertainty.
Below you’ll find a copy-and-paste template, plus practical tips for making your order workable and focused on your children’s best interests.
BY CONSENT IT IS ORDERED THAT:
1. Living Arrangements
The child(ren), [insert full names and dates of birth], shall live with [Applicant/Respondent] at [insert address].
The child(ren) shall also spend time with [other parent] as set out below.
2. Regular Contact Schedule
The child(ren) shall spend time with [other parent] as follows:
Every other weekend from Friday 5pm (or after school) to Sunday 5pm.
One midweek overnight stay each Wednesday from after school until Thursday morning.
[For younger children: Two afternoons per week, 2pm to 5pm, at the child’s home or a familiar setting.]
3. School Holidays and Special Occasions
The child(ren) shall spend half of all school holidays with each parent, with dates agreed at least one month in advance.
Christmas shall be alternated each year: in even years, the child(ren) spend Christmas Eve and Christmas morning with [Parent A], and Christmas afternoon and Boxing Day with [Parent B]; in odd years, the arrangement is reversed.
Birthdays shall be alternated each year, or both parents may attend a joint celebration if agreed.
4. Decision-Making
Both parents shall consult each other and make joint decisions on major issues affecting the child(ren), including:
Education (choice of school, major changes)
Health (medical treatment, registration with GP/dentist)
Religious upbringing
5. Communication and Information Sharing
The parents shall keep each other informed of any significant changes affecting the child(ren), including:
Change of address
Change of school or nursery
Serious health matters or accidents
6. Supporting Relationships
Both parents shall encourage and support the child(ren)’s relationship with both sides of the family, including grandparents and extended relatives.
7. Flexibility and Further Arrangements
Any further arrangements or variations to this order shall be agreed in writing between the parties.
If a dispute arises, the parties shall attempt to resolve it through discussion or mediation before returning to court.
SIGNED:
Applicant
Respondent
Date: ________________
Tips for Making Your Order Workable and Child-Focused
Be Specific:
Set out exact times, dates, and locations for contact—avoid vague wording.
Include clear arrangements for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions so everyone knows what to expect.
Keep Communication Open:
Agree to share updates about school, health, and activities in writing (email, text, or a shared online calendar).
Decide in advance how you’ll notify each other about changes, emergencies, or travel plans.
Focus on the Child’s Needs:
Build a schedule that fits your child’s age and daily routine, considering school, sleep, and activities.
Use neutral, respectful language—avoid criticism or blame.
Plan for Flexibility:
Life changes—include a clause for reviewing and updating arrangements if needed, ideally in writing.
If a change is needed, propose it in writing and allow reasonable time for a response.
Encourage Positive Relationships:
Support your child’s relationship with both parents and extended family, including regular contact and shared events where possible.
Avoid putting the child in the middle of adult disagreements—keep communication direct and written.
Example Contact Schedules for Different Ages
Newborns and Babies (0–2 years):
The child lives with [main carer] and spends time with [other parent] for two hours, three times a week, at the child’s home or a familiar setting.
As the child grows, increase visits to half-days, always considering nap and feeding routines.
Both parents attend health appointments and milestone events together where possible.
Toddlers (2–4 years):The child lives with [main carer] and spends time with [other parent] every Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
One midweek visit for dinner and play, 4pm to 7pm.
Alternate weekends for overnight stays may be introduced if the child is settled and comfortable.
School-Aged Children (5–11 years):The child lives with [main carer] and spends time with [other parent] every other weekend from Friday after school to Sunday 5pm.
One overnight stay each week, e.g., Wednesday after school to Thursday morning.
Half of all school holidays, alternating Easter, summer, and Christmas breaks.
Teenagers (12+ years):The child spends alternate weeks with each parent, or
The child lives with [main carer] and spends time with [other parent] every other weekend and one midweek overnight.
The child’s wishes and social commitments are considered when planning the rota.
Example Arrangements for Christmas and HolidaysChristmas:
The child spends Christmas Eve and Christmas morning with [Parent A], and Christmas afternoon and Boxing Day with [Parent B].
Alternate the arrangement each year so both parents have Christmas morning every other year.
Include time for extended family visits if possible.
School Holidays:The child spends half of each school holiday with each parent, with dates agreed at least one month in advance.
For summer holidays, the child spends the first two weeks with [Parent A], the next two weeks with [Parent B], and the final week alternating days.
Birthdays:The child spends their birthday with [Parent A] in even years and [Parent B] in odd years, or
Both parents attend a joint celebration if possible.
How to Use These ExamplesAdjust times, days, and locations to suit your child’s age, routine, and comfort.
Always prioritise your child’s wellbeing and keep communication open.
If you’re unsure, start with shorter visits and build up as your child settles.
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