Your kids are probably looking forward to three months of freedom. However, if you co-parent, this time can be challenging.
You and your child’s other parent will have to work out a schedule just for summer vacation, which can be difficult and stressful. While it’s not ideal, some tips will help ensure a successful summer for your children and co-parent.
Start planning early for vacations
Don’t way until a few days before summer vacation to iron out the details – especially if your vacation plans are involved. It’s best to talk to your child’s other parent as early as possible about the schedule. If you have a custody agreement in place, you may not have to do much – but summer plans and vacations schedules aren’t always clearly covered.
Be sure to let the other parent know about vacation plans as early as possible so that you can ask for accommodations (and they have time to make them).
Inform the other parent about schedule changes as soon as possible
Everyone knows that things come up. You may have a work trip that you must take unexpectedly or some other issue for a time when the children are supposed to be with you over break. It’s best to let the other parent know about these issues as soon as you can. The more notice you give, the more likely they will be able to accommodate your needs.
Making a co-parenting plan this summer
With summer right around the corner, it’s good to start planning for any issues with your co-parenting agreement right away. You can also seek a bit of professional help early if things appear to be getting complicated and your co-parent refuses to compromise or be reasonable.
