Child Inclusive Mediation
Giving children a voice in family dispute resolution
What is Child Inclusive Mediation?
Child Inclusive Mediation is a specialised approach that gives children an opportunity to share their thoughts, feelings, and wishes about parenting arrangements in a safe and age-appropriate way. This process helps parents gain valuable insights into their children's perspectives, which can inform more child-focused decision-making.
A trained child consultant meets separately with the child or children, creating a comfortable environment where they can express themselves freely. The consultant then provides feedback to the parents either before or during the mediation, without identifying specific statements that might put the child in a difficult position and with the child's consent.
Benefits of Child Inclusive Mediation
Children feel heard and valued
Parents gain child's perspective
More child-focused outcomes
Reduces child's sense of burden
Age-appropriate participation
Protects children from conflict
The Child Inclusive Process
Step 1: Parent Preparation
Parents are briefed on the child inclusive process and how it will work. Both parents must agree to include their children in the mediation process.
Step 2: Child Consultation
A qualified child consultant meets with the children in a safe, comfortable setting. The consultant uses age-appropriate techniques to understand the child's views and experiences.
Step 3: Feedback to Parents
The consultant provides feedback to both parents either before or during the mediation, sharing themes and insights without compromising the child's confidentiality or putting them in a position of having to choose between parents.
Step 4: Informed Decision-Making
Parents attend a mediation with the mediator and use the insights gained to make more informed decisions about parenting arrangements that better reflect their children's needs and wishes.
Is Child Inclusive Mediation Right for Your Family?
Child Inclusive Mediation is particularly beneficial when:
- Children are old enough to express their views (typically 5 years and older)
- Parents are open to hearing their children's perspectives
- Both parents agree to include the children in the process
- The children's safety and wellbeing can be ensured throughout
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Benefits
- Children's voices heard safely
- Better informed decisions
- Child-focused outcomes
- Professional child consultant
- Age-appropriate methods
- Reduces family conflict
Put Your Children First
Learn more about how Child Inclusive Mediation can benefit your family
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