episode two: understanding children's experience of contact

Children and adults often experience contact very differently.

While adults may be focused on arrangements, schedules, court orders, and practical considerations, children are often navigating a range of emotions and experiences that are not always visible to the adults around them.

In this episode, Service Manager Jakki, Senior Contact Worker Sam and Assistant Service Manager Natalie explore children's experiences of contact and what parents can do to better understand the world through their child's eyes.

Drawing on more than 15 years of experience working with children and families in the post-separation space, Natalie shares insights into the emotional experiences children may bring into contact arrangements. The discussion explores how children can experience contact differently from adults and why understanding a child's perspective is such an important part of supporting them through family change.

The conversation encourages parents to look beyond the practical aspects of contact and consider the thoughts, feelings, worries, and hopes that children may be carrying with them. By developing a deeper understanding of a child's experience, parents are often better able to respond to their needs and support positive relationships.

This episode reflects one of the core principles of the Holding Hands approach: keeping children at the centre of conversations, decisions, and support. When adults take the time to understand what contact feels like from a child's perspective, they are often better equipped to help children feel safe, supported, and heard.

🎧 Listen to the episode to learn more about understanding children's experiences of contact and why seeing the world through a child's eyes matters.