While your children enjoy this time of the year in Maryland since they aren’t in school, it’s sure to bring some challenges to your life. This is particularly true if you’re divorced and share parenting time with your ex-spouse.
Dividing parenting time during summer vacation can be difficult, especially since both parents want to spend as much time as possible with their children. Here are several tips that can help you avoid disagreements:
- Plan your schedule in advance: It’s not possible to plan out the entire summer, as you never know when things will change, but a basic schedule will go a long way in keeping you and your ex on the same page. For example, if you plan on taking a vacation with your children, share the details of the trip with your ex as soon as possible.
- Talk to your children: Don’t make plans without including your children, as you may schedule something that conflicts with another activity. When you include your children in all decisions, it’s easier to settle on a schedule that suits everyone.
- Discuss childcare with your ex: During the school year, you may not worry about this as much since your children are accounted for during the day. However, during the summer months, questions regarding childcare often move to the forefront. Discuss this as soon as possible, to avoid a situation in which there’s no one to watch your children during summer vacation.
- Remain flexible: Even with a schedule in place, there will be times when you have to make changes. For example, if you get called out of town for work, you may need to change the weekend that you visit with your children. If you’re flexible yourself, there’s a greater chance that your ex will take the same approach.
When you follow these tips, you’ll find it easier to divide parenting time during summer vacation. With a schedule in place, you won’t have nearly as many concerns about the opportunity to spend valuable time with your children.
If your ex is making it difficult to get along during the summer months, revisit your parenting plan and learn more about your legal rights.
