08/05/2026
When parents separate, one of the hardest questions can be:
“What’s best for the children?”
In her latest article, Tina Maretic explores how children’s emotional and developmental needs change at different ages — and why child contact arrangements should focus on helping children feel safe, secure, and heard, rather than following a “one size fits all” approach.
This thoughtful blog looks at:
✨ Why routines and attachment matter
✨ How children experience separation differently at each stage of development
✨ The importance of child-centred communication
✨ Creating arrangements that support emotional wellbeing
At FIRST Hub, we understand that separation can feel overwhelming for families. Our aim is always to support healthier communication, reduce conflict, and help parents make decisions that truly meet their children’s needs.
Read the full article here:
https://www.firsthub.org/rethinking-child-contact-what-do-children-really-need-at-each-stage-of-development
When parents separate, the biggest question is not what is fairest for adults, but what helps a child feel safe and secure. This blog explores how children’s needs change with age and why child-centred arrangements matter more than fixed formulas.