Spring is already here; before we know it, it will be summertime. Unfortunately, summer break can be a challenging time for divorced parents. With children out of school and having more free time, it can be challenging for co-parents to coordinate schedules and activities and plan summer vacations. However, there are several things divorced parents can do to make summer break a positive experience for their children. Keep reading as our College Station family law attorneys are providing summer break tips for divorced parents.
How divorced parents can successfully co-parent during summer break
Summertime is one of the best times for kids. Childhood summer memories are some of the best memories that your children will have forever. So, it is understandable that parents want to have fun with their children and create those lasting memories. So, this is why we’ve created this helpful list of tips and considerations to help you successfully co-parent and plan for summer break when divorced.
Plan ahead.
When parents take the time during the divorce process to consider a summer game plan from the beginning, this can be enormously helpful once summer rolls around. But unfortunately, when spouses go through a divorce, they often do not consider modifications to their summer schedule compared to their “normal” co-parenting or child custody schedule or agreement. Therefore, it is recommended that, as you prepare your child custody agreement, you consider that your summer child custody agreement can be different than your regular schedule.
The best thing you can do is plan ahead. The more you plan, the less stressful summer break will be. Get your children involved in summer planning, especially as they grow older. Older children will definitely want to have a say in what they want to do during summer break. Make a list of activities you would like to do with your children, and let them help you create that list. Start planning activities and booking things like summer camps well in advance. The more organized you are with your planning, the less you will have to avoid last-minute scrambling. Planning ahead will also give you time to find affordable activities and options.
Implement a cause for summer vacations.
During summer break, you will likely want to take the opportunity to travel with your children. Therefore, part of your child custody agreement should include a clause that blocks out a specific time when each parent can plan to go on vacation with the children during summer break. This clause should also authorize them to travel out of the jurisdiction with their children for vacation. Of course, you should also discuss your summer travel vacation plans with your co-parent.
Communicate with your co-parent.
Communication is key. As mentioned above, now is the time to start thinking about your and your children’s summer plans. If you want to change your schedule, plan a trip, switch weeks, or your child wants to do a specific camp this summer, it’s essential to communicate with your co-parent about your summer break plans. Ensure you are both on the same page about who will care for the kids, when, and what activities you have planned. Effective communication will help avoid conflict and make things easier for everyone involved.
Be positive and be flexible.
Sometimes plan change, and life happens, especially when you are trying to navigate co-parenting with your ex-spouse. So, it’s necessary to be flexible regarding summer break. Be prepared to change your plans, and stay calm if things go differently. How you react will directly affect your children and their emotional response to changes. Summer break is a time for kids to have fun and make memories, so try to make it a positive experience.
Make time for yourself.
Summer break can be a great time to relax and recharge. So make sure you schedule some time for yourself each week, especially when you don’t have the children, even if it’s just for a few hours. Making time for yourself will help you feel more relaxed and refreshed during the summer months.
Watch the video: How School May Affect Your Visitation Schedule.
We can help answer your questions about divorce, co-parenting, and how to navigate your summer co-parenting agreements.
The complexities of co-parenting and child custody agreements are why you need an experienced Bryan-College Station family law firm on your side from the beginning. Our Texas family law firm can answer all your questions, provide you with all your options, and be there to guide you from beginning to end. We hope these summer break tips for divorced parents will be helpful as you navigate your summer planning schedules.
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