Child Inclusive Practice

The process of a family separation can be a daunting and intimidating process for children, so at LifeWorks, we offer Child Inclusive Practice (CIP) within the Family Dispute Resolution service.

Child Inclusive Practice provides an opportunity for children to talk independently with a trained Child Consultant in a safe, supportive and comfortable environment. At LifeWorks, we have a children’s room specially designed and resourced for these sessions, with a range of toys and equipment suitable for different ages.

During their session, the children have the opportunity to express themselves and talk about how they are feeling about the separation and other related concerns with an impartial counsellor. The Child Consultant then provides feedback and recommendations to the parents.

For example, Children in CIP may express sadness and anxiety about the ongoing conflict between their separated parents. Parents are often surprised to hear that the children are overhearing arguments on the phone or at changeover between the two homes and, as a result of that feedback, parents feel that they can try to reduce or eliminate conflict for the sake of the children.

Child Inclusive Practice is an optional and non-legal service. Sessions are not mandatory and session details are not admissible in court. However, CIP does allow the children’s voices and perspectives to be considered and taken into account as part of the Family Dispute Resolution process.

It is designed to enhance collaboration between parents and keep the best interests of the children at the forefront of the mediation. CIP also helps separated parents develop co-operative parenting strategies for the future.

Q. How does Child Inclusive Practice work?

A. With the consent of both parents, the children have their own appointment with a trained Child Consultant in LifeWork’s children’s room.

During the one hour session, the Child Consultant  facilitates a conversation with the child and encourages them to talk about the separation, domestic arrangements and other related topics. Depending on the age of the child, the Child Consultant may use play therapy during the session.

The Child Consultant is not judgemental, suggestive or adversarial in tone. The purpose of the session is to gain insights into how the child is feeling and provide a forum in which they can comfortably express themselves.

After the session, the Child Consultant provides feedback and recommendations to both parents in a one hour session. This feedback is then used as a guide and reference throughout the Family Dispute Resolution process. 

Q. What age is appropriate for Child Inclusive Practice?

A. Generally speaking, Child Inclusive Practice is relevant for school age children, from 5 to 15.

Q. Is Child Inclusive Practice suitable for all Family Dispute Resolution mediations?

A. No. Careful consideration must be given as to whether the parents will prioritise the children’s best interest above their own grievances or hurt and utilise the recommendations constructively as part of the Dispute Resolution process.  The Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner will suggest Child Inclusive Practice after assessing and considering a number of factors within each individual case.

Q. Do the parents receive a report?

A. Child Inclusive Practice does not produce a written report. Rather, a feedback session is conducted by the Child Consultant with both parents.

Q. Can this information be used in court?

A. No. Child Inclusive Practice is not a legal process. The children’s feedback is inadmissible in court.

Q. Can more than one child be in the session?

A.The children are generally seen one to one so that their individual, authentic voice is heard and not influenced by their sibling’s perspective.