Mediation

If parents cannot communicate well, mediation may be the answer. A trained mediator can help improve communication between parents. This benefits the child.

Mediation can help:

• If parents often argue;
• If there are communication problems between parents/guardians;
• If there are domestic violence issues between parents;
• If parents are no longer willing to talk to one another;
• With a difficult separation/divorce.

Every child has the right to maintain good contact with both parents. It is harmful for the child if the parents argue in the child's presence. Parents should not involve their children in their arguments or talk negatively about the other parent in the child's presence. It is also important that children do not witness violence.

Mediation involves drawing up behavioural rules that apply during the mediation sessions. Those rules are agreed upon in consultation with both parents. Both parents have to attend in the meetings. Mediation involves a maximum of five sessions.

Children have the right to maintain contact with their parent(s). Parents also have the right to see their children, even if the child does not live at home. In some cases, one parent doesn't want the other parent to see the child. Youth Care is impartial, which means we talk to both parties. Together, we draw up a visitation arrangement that is in the best interest of the child. This visitation arrangement specifies the parents' rights and obligations.