Child Custody Tips for Summer Vacation
Summer vacation memories fill many hearts throughout their lifetime. The idea of having extra time with family doing fun activities is something many look forward to all year long. For divorced couples, maneuvering scheduling of summer vacations can be problematic. The goal for most divorced couples is to find a compromise in fairness for spending time with their children over the summer. Consider the tips below to ensure you are putting your best foot forward going into the summer months.
Make a schedule
Instead of spending your summer in court in a heated battle over who has your children and when, attempting to make a schedule that is fair to both parties could help. Coming up with a fair schedule will require compromise and talking to your former partner about your travel plans desires for the summer will be critical. Ensure once you have reached an agreement that both parties sign the schedule and submit it to the judge.
Communication is key
Plans change. Things happen. If you attempt to give the other parent as much notice as possible that will ease tensions more than you know. Feeling caught off guard or overwhelmed can make the tensions with your former partner rise. Communication is key. And keeping an open line of communication is in the best interest of your children.
Make it a safe place
While you may not be on the best terms with your ex, making sure your kids do not get caught up in the drama between you all is important. Find a place for drop offs during the summer that make your kids feel safe and minimize the chance of arguments or conflict in front of them. Perhaps a public place like their school parking lot.
Let them talk
Do not fall into the trap of getting your children out of communication with your ex. It is important to keep a schedule that allows the other parent and your child to talk even when they are not together.
If you are struggling to compromise on a summer schedule, contact your family law attorney for help with your custody agreement.