Many parents run into challenges because they don’t discuss plans

Co-Parenting During the Summer Break

Allocating custody time between co-parents can be quite a challenge. Many of them end up in dispute because parents don’t take time out to coordinate and discuss their plans. If you want to have a peaceful and enjoyable summer break with your children, then follow these three simple tips:

1. Set a Child Custody Schedule

With summer break just around the corner, it’s normal for co-parents to get excited and start making plans with the kids. However, this approach is problematic because chances are, your plans will overlap. Before you do anything, it’s always good to sit down with the other parent (preferably in the presence of a legal counsel or neutral third party) and develop a custody schedule.

Many co-parents prefer custody of the children every alternate summer break as it’s easier to follow, plus it can accommodate traveling plans too. Another option is to divide the summer break every year. Either way, you’ll have to make sure the division is fair, and both parties are clear about the terms, such as which parent is in charge of pick-up and dropping off children.

2. Account for Both Parents’ Schedules and Jobs

Splitting custody is not a cut-and-dried decision. Even if kids are on vacation, many parents are still working. Their job schedules and other commitments must be taken into account so that both the child and co-parent can enjoy their time with each other.

When you’re making a custody plan for the summer break, try to anticipate work obligations and inconveniences that may crop up. Allow for flexibility or maybe exchange a certain time period in the summer for the winter holidays. Remember, if you’re flexible, the other party will be more willing to give you some leeway too.

3. Put It On Paper

It’s always good to have a written document instead of just a verbal agreement. This way, there is no ambiguity about the custody arrangements for the summer. It can prevent a lot of miscommunication and last-minute frustration. Plus, in the event of a dispute, the judge can easily reference the document.

So once you’ve decided on the custody schedule, write down your plans and mention any key details that the co-parent should be aware of. Be sure to share it with the co-parent and get their approval on the final plan.

Get an Experienced Family Lawyer on Board

Co-parenting is no mean feat. It requires constant effort and consideration. Hammering out the details of a co-parenting agreement at the start can help simplify things later.

Reach out to our expert child custody lawyers to discuss any issues that you may be facing with child custody. Whether it’s making a case for sole custody or developing a plan for co-parenting, we can give you sound legal advice along the way.

Call 877-619-9112 to schedule an appointment at our Baltimore or Silver Springs office.

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