What is child inclusive mediation?
While the role of mediation between separated couples has become better understood over recent years, many are still wondering: what is child-inclusive mediation? It’s becoming more common as part of child-inclusive practices to resolve, so let’s take a look at exactly what it entails.
Child-inclusive mediation
Resolving arrangements for separated parents is often difficult. Understanding a child’s views about potential parenting arrangements is often important. However, independently determining those wishes can be challenging during the family dispute resolution process. Beyond our comprehensive separation and divorce services, we also provide this vital mediation service.
During the separation process, it may be important to hear how the child is experiencing their parent’s separation. Child-inclusive mediation can assist parents in understanding how their child is coping with the separation and current parenting arrangements. This process is important, as sometimes a parent’s agenda and child’s development and best interests are not the same.
How does Child-inclusive mediation work?
Child-inclusive mediation is a voluntary process (although sometimes the court may order it) whereby children are included in the mediation process with a qualified child consultant.
It serves as a chance for children to speak safely and meaningfully about their experience through play and discussion. The child’s input becomes an important component of our family dispute resolution services.
The information obtained in a children inclusive mediation is confidential and is not admissible in court.
A complete child-inclusive process
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The Mediator will meet individually with each parent
The Mediator will determine if the matter is suitable for family dispute resolution and discuss the potential of a child-inclusive process. A child-inclusive mediation is not always the best course of action and is determined on a case-by-case basis.
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The child and Child Consultant meet with the Mediator
Interviewing children in this context involves a qualified Child Consultant meeting with the child in a safe, supportive environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. The child must give their permission before their views are passed on to the parents.
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Feedback session
This step involves the parents, the child consultant and the Mediator. The child consultant will discuss with the parties how the child is coping with the family separation and deliver any key messages the child would like the parent to know.
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Mediation
The Mediation process with both parents, their legal representatives and the child consultant then occurs. The child is not present during this session.
The benefits:
- The child may express their views and it gives them a voice without fear of upsetting either parent.
- The child may be a part of the decision-making processes without putting the pressure on them.
- It gives the parents an understanding of how the child is feeling/coping with parental separation.
- Importantly, child-inclusive mediation ensures all parties remain focused on the child’s best interests.
Reconnecting with your child after separation
Gaining Clarity in the Post-Separation Context
Post-separation, children may struggle to express how they feel about the changes happening around them. They may become quiet, withdrawn, or unsure of how to share their needs. Child-inclusive mediation gives parents access to structured support that helps uncover the child’s perspective, providing meaningful insight that can guide practical decision-making.
Support from Professionals Who Understand Family Dynamics
A qualified family consultant works alongside the family dispute resolution practitioner to help interpret the child’s experience and relay key messages during mediation. This ensures the child’s voice is acknowledged without involving them directly in any conflict. These insights help both parents better understand their unique family situation, particularly how the child is responding to current arrangements.
Strengthening Parenting Plans Through Informed Insight
When parenting plans are informed by the child’s experience, they become more than just logistical agreements, they become tools that support lasting cooperation. Creating a safe space for the child to speak with a trained professional ensures that their feedback is both respectfully gathered and considered, helping parents develop plans that reflect their child’s genuine needs.
These benefits are just some of the reasons we support the use of child-inclusive mediation Australia-wide as a valuable step in resolving parenting matters.
Have a question about family dispute resolution?
Child-inclusive mediation is not for everyone, it is one option to be considered from many. Family mediation gives separated families the chance to find common ground, allowing them to resolve disputes before they get too heated. This can be especially beneficial in cases involving children. The team at Michael Lynch Family Lawyers has the experience and personable approach to support you through family law matters.
If you would like to discuss your personal circumstances with an experienced family lawyer, call (07) 3221 4300, email [email protected], or fill in our online form here to arrange an appointment with one of our family law solicitors. If you need assistance with arranging mediation, contact Michael Lynch Mediations by emailing [email protected] today.
