The summer months are a time that children often look forward to because it means a break from school. They get to enjoy warmer days and mostly nice weather. But, this is also a time that can be challenging for parents, particularly if they’re not in a relationship with each other anymore.
Co-parenting is often a challenge during summer months because of significant schedule changes. Take, for example, vacations. Both parents may want to take the children on vacation, so they have to be planned carefully. These tips may help to make this situation easier.
Check the parenting time schedule
Looking at your parenting time schedule is one of the first things that you should do as you’re making summer plans. This gives you a chance to find dates that will work for your vacation. You and your ex will have to communicate about these dates to ensure that the vacations don’t overlap. In some cases, vacation time may trump the normal parenting time schedule, so that must be considered.
Evaluate travel requirements
When you decide on a destination, you should find out if you can take the children there. Some parenting plans have geographical restrictions, which can limit where you can go without permission from the other parent or the court. If you plan to travel internationally, you’ll need to have permission from the other parent to get a passport for your children, and you may need a notarized affidavit for entry into other countries.
Determine communication methods
Your children will likely want to speak to their other parent while they’re on vacation. Having a plan for this ahead of time will ensure everyone is on the same page. It’s a good idea to think about taking pictures for them to share with their other parent, as well as possibly helping them to get souvenirs to share.
Ultimately, your parenting plan is the starting point for all summer vacation plans. Should your parenting plan need to be modified, know that speaking with a skilled legal team about your needs is always an option.