For students in Washington and across the country, school will be letting out soon for summer break. Your kids might have plans to go to day camp, or maybe you have a family vacation planned. If you work outside the home, you might also have some logistics to work out, including supervision for your children while you’re away. These are issues most families encounter during summer break. If you are navigating a divorce, such issues may be a top priority in child custody proceedings.
What you don’t want to do is neglect to incorporate details about summer break in your co-parenting agreement. In fact, when it comes to child custody plans, the more detail, the better. Try to leave no stone unturned regarding childcare issues, finances, decision-making, traveling and all other relevant topics. If your agreement is too vague or terms are ambiguous, it leads the way to confusion and disputes.
Use these child custody tips to avoid summer break disputes
Every family’s situation is unique, and what works for someone you know might not be a good fit for you and your loved ones. The following list includes helpful ideas that all families can try to avoid co-parenting disputes during summer break:
- Keep each other informed regarding plans to travel with the kids.
- Discuss upcoming events that involve an expense, and determine ahead of time who will foot the bill.
- Be flexible if schedule changes are necessary due to employment issues or a parent or child falling ill, etc.
- Have a plan regarding introducing new romantic partners to children, such as agreeing that the other parent must meet the person first.
If you have questions or concerns about summer-related issues that might cause child custody disagreements, it’s best to schedule a meeting to discuss it. If you and your ex are unable to resolve a particular matter, you can reach out for added support.
Who can help you minimize child custody stress during summer?
Many Washington parents are in the same boat as you because they’re preparing for or have recently filed for divorce and are unsure how to get through summer break without co-parenting problems. You shouldn’t hesitate to accept assistance from others who are willing to help you and your children adapt to your new lifestyle. Supporters might include:
- Grandparents or other extended family members who are willing to babysit or provide transportation for your kids.
- Employers, who might be willing to adjust your schedule to make custody transfers less stressful.
- Coaches, camp directors and other trusted adults who understand your family’s circumstances and can be there to support your children if they’re having trouble coping with your divorce.
- Legal representatives who can recommend fair solutions to child custody disagreements.
A Washington family court judge has children’s best interests in mind when making child custody decisions. The court wants to help you implement a co-parenting plan that provides for your children’s needs and enables them to flourish despite the changes divorce has brought to their lives.