Child custody and parenting time arrangements can be complex and emotionally charged issues, and it is important that the perspectives and needs of children are heard and taken into account. This is where a Voice of the Child Report (VOC) can be valuable, as it provides a summary of a child's statement about a particular issue in their decision-making responsibility and parenting time situation. In this article, we will discuss what a VOC report is, how it is conducted, and its importance in ensuring that children's voices are heard in custody and parenting disputes. We will also explore various styles of having a child's voice heard and provide insights into how parents can prepare their child for the VOC process.
What is a Voice of the Child Report?
A Voice of the Child Report (VOC) is a brief report that summarizes a child's statement about a specific issue in their decision-making responsibility and parenting time situation.
What age should a child-report be conducted?
A child voice report can be conducted as early as 5 years of age, in a variety of settings. It is recommended to create an environment where the child feels safe and able to connect with the person conducting the report. Empathy is essential, and giving the child a feeling of security is a vital part of conducting a child-voice report.
The child is explained the process and what happens to the information they provide. Children have the right to decide what they wish to keep confidential or share in their report.
It is also important to inform the child that adults make the final decision, but they will have a voice in what is important to them.
What are some emotional triggers for children before and after a child voice report?
Children react differently to the process depending on their age and emotional intelligence. Some children can show big emotions of anxiety before the session. It is essential to have them with familiar objects or routines.
What can parents do to help their child through this transition?
Let your child know that they will not be upset with what they have to say and that their words and feelings are respected. Parents are encouraged to take parenting courses to help with positive communication.
When is a child-voice report highly recommended?
- A child-voice report is highly recommended when there is a move from province or city where the distance can become an issue for the child and parent.
- Where the child is resistant to seeing the other parent
- Where the child has their own schedule that does not meet the parent's idea of the parenting schedule.
How do we ensure a child report is conducted fairly and unbiased?
The process of the child voice report is conducted fairly. Both parents are interviewed in separate sessions about their child, and a plan of support and action plan is created accordingly. After the child is interviewed separately in each parental care separately, parents are not permitted in the interview room. The report is shared with both parents at the same time with what the child has permitted to share.
How do you prepare for the voice of the child report?
To help prepare for the process, focus on ways to keep your child out of any dispute. To help the child prepare, be supportive of their expression of true thoughts and feelings. Both parental consents are required.
What happens if one parent refuses to conduct a child voice report?
Parents can ask for a court order or arbitration process by providing evidence of why a VOC is required and needed.
What are the different styles of having your child's voice heard?
Where can you reach out for a child voice report?
Please feel free to reach out to Canada Family Mediation to help you with this procedure.
Authored By:
Rose Morsh
RECE, Parenting Practitioner,
Family Mediator & Child Voice Practitioner
