http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00rwnsk/Who_Needs_Fathers_For_the_Sake_of_the_Kids/

Review by Even Toddlers Need Fathers

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXbX6ZGZRhg

Please have a look at this BBC programme.

1. In the one family the mother is obstructing the children's relationship with their father and alienating the children especially the one child by taking him horse riding instead of seeing his father. The mother would rather have the au pair look after the children than their own father and prevents them going on holiday with him.
2. In the other family it seems that bother parents are putting their children first. Then the mother says that it's the last time the father will take the children on holiday as he did not call her to confirm their safe arrival. Albeit that this was very silly of the father, who gives her this authority to "control" the children. The father is struggling financially doing the best he can for his family but seems to make another mistake and moves to the opposite site of London making things difficult for the children and family, instead of perhaps selling this home.

Obvioursly we only get a snap shot of the whole picture and as human beings look for meaning and judgement in everything which we shouldn't. It is however a thought provoking programme, and interesting as they are in breach of Section 97 the law keeping family courts secret behind closed doors.

Children must be put first as though the couples were still together, making joint decisions and sharing the parenting.

The best parents is both parents putting their children first.

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A major series to mark 20 years since the passing of the Children Act, investigates whether its key principle is being adhered to - that in family breakdown and divorce, the welfare of the child is paramount.

One in three British children have parents who are separated, and it's their relationship with the absent parent that's the key factor in their long-term wellbeing. The first film follows two families, one locked in a long battle in the Family Court, and the other determined to stay out of court and manage the split themselves. The film explores the impact of separation on children's lives and how decisions made in court play out in already troubled relationships.

Broadcast on:

BBC Two, 9:00pm Wednesday 31st March 2010

Duration:

60 minutes

Available until:

9:59pm Wednesday 21st April 2010