Views of the Child Reports: The Ontario pilot project

There is increasing use of Views of the Child Reports as a means of involving children in the resolution of parenting disputes in Canada, but there are significant differences in how these Reports are prepared. This article reports on a study of an Ontario pilot project which provided non-evaluative reports for parenting disputes prepared by social workers based on two interviews with each child about the child's perspectives and preferences; children were offered confidentiality and the opportunity to review and edit the Report. The majority of professionals and parents found these Reports were helpful for the resolution of the cases, and almost half of the cases settled shortly after preparation of the Report. Most significantly, the children all stated that they appreciated the opportunity to share their views. However, some parents and their lawyers raised concerns that these Reports may not be appropriate for certain cases. We conclude that these Reports are a valuable addition to the 'family justice toolbox'. We make suggestions for good practices and policy reforms to encourage their appropriate use.