As many North Carolina parents know, summertime can be hectic and filled with trips and events for their kids. For divorced parents, it can be an emotional and stressful time as well, particularly if a plan for summer parenting is not in place. Deciding how to best accommodate each other during the summer is essential.
Parents want to spend as much time with their children as possible. However, summer has far less structure. It is often a time when children might spend more time with the non-custodial parent, something that is often ironed out in the parenting plan. When children see both parents, their ability to successfully adapt to the newness of separate households is improved.
Setting up a plan for parenting may be complex since it needs to take the child’s needs and schedule into consideration. Being prepared for any eventuality makes for less stress and increases harmony. Setting up rules helps. For instance, a parent might need to let the other parent know about his or her vacation plans well ahead of time. Advance notice helps both parents structure their summer appropriately.
Summertime often means more activities and social events for children. They might have Little League games at night, swim meets during the days and sleepovers with friends. All of these can disrupt the normal custody and visitation schedule, so the parenting plan should be flexible in this regard. It is also a good idea for parents to keep track of these things using a visitation app in addition to a calendar.
Divorced parents who are flexible enough to adapt to summertime vacations will see their children thrive. If custody and visitation disputes still arise, family law attorneys might suggest mediation as a way to solve them in a harmonious manner.