Planning a Stress-Free Summer After Divorce

Summertime gives a new sense of energy to both children and parents alike.  With the school year coming to an end, many parents need to plan ahead for activities to keep the kids occupied in the coming months.  Some parents may employ child care resources, while others may have one parent or family member staying home with the kids full time.  Organizing summer plans isn’t easy for every family, but for those spread across two homes due to divorce, planning can become much more complicated.   For divorced or separated parents, prior planning is essential to a stress-free summer for both you and your children.

Outlining a summer custody plan is a serious task for co-parents to take on.  Parents may have a custody schedule that works well throughout the school year, but it is likely that adjustments will need to be made in order to accommodate the children’s schoolless schedules.  Check your personal and work calendars, then communicate with your co-parent about anything that may affect the custody schedule, including events and vacations which could include the kids.  Also, don’t forget to discuss holiday plans, and - if possible - refer to your custody agreement for details as to which parent will have priority this year for holidays like the Fourth of July.  While laying out the details, keep in mind that your kids (especially if they are older) may have an opinion about how they’d like to spend their time off from school.  Listen to what they have to say and see how you and your co-parent can integrate their desires into the summer plan.

A stress-free summer after divorce involves planning ahead logistically and financially.  As best you can, keep on the same page with your co-parent in regards to the cost of any summertime activities for your kids.  Try to work out a fair budget for spending on activities so this summer doesn’t break the bank for either household.  If both parents are working, you may need to employ a child care provider either full or part-time.  Co-parents should discuss affordable options as well as what type of child care provider best suits the family - hiring an at-home nanny, signing the kids up for a day camp at a local park or school, or whatever else fits best.

Children and parents both deserve to enjoy the summertime with as little stress as possible.  Take the time to plan ahead as best you can with your co-parent.  Lay out the summer schedule using a shared calendar to cut out confusion as the summer gets into full swing.  Scout out child care providers early so that you can find the best fit for your family.  If you find yourself in a high-conflict co-parenting situation, you may want to consider working with a family law professional, such as your attorney or mediator, to assist in resolving the summer custody schedule.  Once plans are set for your kids, take a breath and get ready to enjoy your family’s stress-free summer ahead!