Holiday planning for co-parents: a calm checklist

Holidays should be fun for your child — not a negotiation marathon. Plan early.

Start 6 weeks ahead

The earlier you propose dates, the more flexible everyone can be. Last-minute requests breed conflict.

Alternate the big festivals

Diwali with one parent, Holi with the other — and swap the next year. Write down the rotation so there's no debate.

Travel plans in writing

If you're travelling with the child, share the itinerary, hotel, and contact numbers in advance. It's respect, not surveillance.

Build in handover buffer

Don't schedule a handover at 9pm after a 6-hour drive. Tired parents and tired children make bad transitions.