During times of transition, it can be difficult to know what arrangements will truly support your children’s well-being. Many parents want to do what is best but feel unsure about how to make those decisions, especially when emotions are running high or circumstances are changing.

The good news is that there are professionals who can help. Child-focused services such as parenting coordinators, family counsellors, and child development specialists can offer guidance, practical tools, and insight into what children need during and after separation. These experts can help you understand how different parenting arrangements might affect your child based on their age, temperament, and unique needs.

Whether you are working through mediation or negotiating on your own, these professionals can:

Seeking out this kind of support can be a proactive step toward creating a thoughtful plan that puts your children at the centre in a positive and balanced way.

Professionals such as child specialists, psychologists, and counsellors can provide valuable support during separation. They can work directly with parents and children to help determine what arrangements are in the child’s best interests, taking into account the child’s age, developmental stage, and family circumstances.

These professionals can be involved whether you are going through mediation or making decisions on your own. Their insight can help ensure that parenting plans and communication strategies reflect what your children need during this transition.

One option available in some regions is a Hear the Child Report. These reports are prepared by trained, neutral professionals who meet with your child and provide a written summary of the child's views and preferences. This information can be helpful in creating a parenting plan that reflects the child’s experience and voice.