Summer is just around the corner. For kids, it’s a time to relax, spend time with friends and take a break from schoolwork.
For divorced or separated parents, summer brings scheduling challenges. Vacations, camps and family gatherings often disrupt the normal routine established during the school year. Creating a clear, cooperative co-parenting schedule can help reduce conflict and allow everyone to enjoy a relatively stress-free summer.
Why summer scheduling is more difficult
The school year provides more structure between classes and extra-curricular activities, and the co-parenting schedule reflects that. Summer introduces a less predictable routine.
Disagreements often occur about:
- Travel plans involving out-of-state trips
- Competing vacation requests
- Summer camp or activities
- Holiday weekends
One of the best ways to avoid summer co-parenting conflicts is to start planning early so both parents have time to coordinate vacations, work schedules and childcare arrangements. A written summer calendar can help both parents stay organized and prevent misunderstandings.
It’s also important to review the existing custody order to see if there are any specific provisions regarding summer visitation. It may address extended parenting time or travel restrictions. Failing to comply with a court-approved parenting plan can create legal issues and affect custody or visitation rights.
Any summer scheduling decisions should focus on what is best for the child rather than what is most convenient for either parent. Consider the child’s age, activities, social life and emotional needs when creating a schedule. Children often benefit from maintaining strong relationships with both parents.
Children still need some structure during the summer, but flexibility can benefit everyone. It’s not uncommon for unexpected opportunities and schedule changes to arise during summer break. Flexibility may include:
- Swapping weekends
- Adjusting pickup times
- Allowing extra vacation days
Unfortunately, some parents are unable to reach an agreement over summer parenting time. Refusal to cooperate, failing to abide by the custody order or disagreements about travel may require the assistance of a legal professional. They can help enforce custody agreements and protect the child’s best interests when conflicts arise.