For kids, summer is an amazing time of freedom from school. They get to play with their friends, sleep in, and even get to go on vacation with their families. As a car accident lawyer can attest, it can be a fun time, but it’s even more important than ever to look out for the safety of your child — roadways are far busier in the summer than any other time of year. But, what if you are going through a divorce? How do you manage a family vacation with parents that are separated? Here are a few tips from a divorce lawyer with our friends at Patterson Bray PLLC.
Communicate
The first key to managing a summer vacation of any sort is to communicate with your significant other. Let each other know what is happening and when. Before the kids get out of school, compare your calendars and go over what the summer schedule is going to look like. That way expectations are managed for all involved. If you are worried that you and your ex will argue, you can always meet under the guidance of a counselor to help mediate your meeting. Sometimes having a n objective third party present can really help.
Talk to Your Kids
Communicating with your ex is very important, and it is just as important to speak with your children. Let them know the schedule you have set for them. If the child is older and has multiple options available with either parent, ask them how they feel and what they would like to do. This lets them know that their voice is heard and appreciated. Additionally, your child will appreciate getting to pick what they do for their time off school.
Alternate
If both parents are traveling over summer break, schedule your child’s time so that they get to also travel both times. If you have your child for a summer holiday such as Independence Day, then allow your ex to have time with your child during the next holiday on the calendar that you observe. Trading off allows both parents quality time with their child.
Preserve Traditions
If your family always visited the same place every summer before you divorced, consider revisiting it. You do not have to travel with your ex there. It is just important that you keep up the same routine with your child. You can also make it your own. Perhaps in the past your child and ex would spend a day in the park. Instead, you and your child can head to a water park to make new memories and add a twist to the old tradition. Have fun with it, but try not to change too much too fast for your children.
Blend Families
If you and your ex are on good terms, you can always schedule a vacation together as well. You can visit the same location at the same time with your shared children. If someone wants to do different activities while on the trip, then the parents can alternate with their child for each day or activity on the trip so that everyone is able to enjoy their vacation.
A divorce is never easy for anyone involved. Hopefully, these tips help you have a fun summer with your children that runs smoothly in cooperation with your ex. If you and your ex are still struggling with custody issues, contact a lawyer near you for help.