Part 2 / 4
This blog is part of a four part series that looks back on the lecture Children 1st Mediation gave in the Family Mediation Council’s Family Mediation Week 2025. The lecture focus was on the importance of Child Inclusive Mediation, and the benefits it can bring to families going through separation. In this second part, we explore the stages of child inclusive mediation and what a parent might expect at each point.
Navigating Child Inclusive Mediation: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents
Considering Child Inclusive Mediation (CIM) as part of your separation or divorce? It’s a great way to make sure your children feel heard and understood during this challenging time. But what exactly does Child Inclusive Family Mediation involve? Let’s break down the process step-by-step so you know what to expect.
1. Pre-Mediation Meeting
Before involving your children, you’ll have a pre-mediation meeting with the mediator. This is a chance for you as parents to:
- Understand the Child Inclusive Mediation process: The mediator will explain how CIM works, what your children’s involvement will look like, and answer any questions you may have.
- Discuss your concerns: You can share any worries or anxieties you have about including your children in the mediation process.
- Ensure Child Inclusive Mediation is right for your family: The mediator will help you determine if Child Inclusive Mediation is suitable for your children’s ages and the specific circumstances of your family situation.
2. Consent
Once you understand the process, you’ll be asked to give your consent for your children to participate. Both parents must give their written permission for this to go ahead. It’s important to remember that Child Inclusive Mediation is entirely voluntary for both you and your children.
3. Listening to Your Children
This is where your children take centre stage. The mediator will meet with them in a safe, confidential, and child-friendly environment, which might be in person or online if they prefer. They’ll use age-appropriate language and techniques to help your children express their feelings, needs, and wishes openly. This might involve talking, drawing, or other creative methods. The mediator will reinforce the confidential nature of these conversations, so reassure them that they can talk freely. The mediator will explain that they can agree what is shared back to you as parents so as to both hold the confidence of your children, whilst providing helpful feedback
4. Feedback
After hearing the voice of your children, the mediator will share the information they’ve gathered with you (with your children’s permission, of course). This feedback helps you understand your children’s perspectives and make informed decisions that reflect their needs.
5. Facilitating
After giving you an opportunity to digest the feedbackThe mediator will also help you explore different options and find solutions that work best for your whole family.
Child Inclusive Mediation: A Positive Step for Your Family
Child Inclusive Family Mediation can be a valuable tool for families going through separation or divorce. By giving your children a voice, you can create a more positive and child-focused experience for everyone involved. If you’re interested in learning more about having child focussed Mediation, don’t hesitate to contact us at Children 1st Mediation. We’re here to support you and your family every step of the way.
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If you’re thinking about family mediation, Child Inclusive Mediation or just want to know more about your options, we’re here to help. Get in touch by calling us at 0330 33 22 488 or emailing info@children1stmediation.co.uk
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