Voice of the Child Reports
Voice of the Child Reports in Ontario
During separation, parents may want a clearer understanding of how their children are experiencing the changes. A Voice of the Child Report offers a structured way to hear a child's views about specific issues. Forward Family Mediation features this service, offered directly by Susan Cook, so families can learn about the option and connect with her.
Meet Susan and find her contact details to ask about suitability, availability and fees.
Listening without asking children to decide
Children can have thoughts and concerns that are difficult to express when adults disagree. A Voice of the Child Report focuses on hearing and recording their perspectives in a supportive setting. It does not ask a child to settle a dispute or take responsibility for adult decisions.
A child's views are one part of understanding their experience. A report should not be presented as a guarantee of a particular parenting arrangement or court outcome. Ask Susan about the scope of the proposed report and how it differs from other types of assessment.
Support from Susan Cook
Susan's work with families includes more than 20 years of experience in high-conflict situations. Her published profile lists specialist credentials in parenting coordination and family law mediation, together with training in children's mental health. Her approach focuses on helping families understand children's needs during difficult transitions.
You can read Susan's profile and contact her directly to discuss the service. All arrangements, including suitability, scope, scheduling and billing, are handled by Susan and are separate from Forward Family Mediation.
Questions to discuss before arranging a report
Start by explaining the particular concern you hope to understand. Ask whether a Voice of the Child Report is appropriate for the situation, what consent is required, who will receive the report and how confidentiality will be explained.
You can also ask about the interview arrangements, the expected scope and how your child's comfort and privacy will be considered. Susan will explain the service she can offer. Do not assume a particular number of interviews, fee or completion date until you have confirmed those arrangements with her.
How this relates to parenting discussions
Parents working on a parenting plan may want to understand their children's experiences more clearly. A report is a distinct service and is not automatically part of mediation. Discuss its suitability and use with Susan, your mediator and your lawyer as appropriate.
If the main need is help with your own communication or adjustment after separation, parenting and divorce coaching may be another service to explore with Susan. Coaching and a Voice of the Child Report have different purposes.
Preparing to contact Susan
A short explanation of the issues is enough for an initial enquiry. Mention any existing parenting agreement, court order or relevant deadline so Susan can explain what information she needs. Ask how sensitive documents should be shared before sending them.
Avoid coaching a child on what to say or presenting the process as a choice between parents. Speak with Susan about how to explain the service in an age-appropriate way.
Common questions
Does the report decide parenting time
No. It records the child's perspectives within the agreed scope. Decisions and legal arrangements remain the responsibility of the appropriate adults and, where involved, the court.
Is this included in Forward Family Mediation's fees
No. This service is offered directly by Susan, who handles arrangements and billing separately. Ask her for current fees and scope.
Can I book through Laura's introductory call
For a Voice of the Child Report, use Susan's contact details. For family mediation with Laura, book a free introductory call. These are separate enquiries.
Find out whether this service fits your family
Connect with Susan Cook to ask about a Voice of the Child Report. Independent legal advice may be needed about how a report relates to your family's legal proceedings or agreements.