Summer is supposedly a fun season for your children, but if it’s the first time they’ll spend it with one parent, it can be a long spell for them. Child custody can be tricky to navigate during this time, as it means significant changes in visitation schedules. Here’s a closer look at how you can work out an arrangement.  

How to Arrange Child Custody for the Summer

1. Discuss Your Vacation Plans

With kids out of school for the summer break, they’ll have more time to go on long holidays. If you plan to take them somewhere for a vacation, talk to your former spouse about it. Sit down together and create a schedule that’s agreeable to both parties. Discuss plans, but also consider the limitations outlined in the child custody agreement—such as no overseas trips. However, you can modify the terms of the agreement, so long as you both agree to it.

2. Give Notice of any Changes

Once you’ve agreed on the schedule, stick to it as much as possible. Have it in writing, signed, and submitted to a family court judge to make everything clear. Should there be any changes in your well-laid plans, inform your former spouse ahead of schedule. This will give them enough time to prepare for your child’s arrival and stay, as well as avoid arguments from the sudden changes.    

3. Let Your Child Maintain Relationships

This summer, allow your child to keep their relationships with the extended family on your former spouse’s side. Let your child visit their grandparents and cousins, so they can spend time with them. Refrain from making your child choose between you and your ex by giving whatever they want. It’s okay for them to love both parents—even if they’re living separately.  

4. Show Respect

The key to a successful child custody arrangement is showing respect to your former spouse. Avoid cutting off ties completely, and keep communication lines open, even during the summer. Encourage your children to have a routine at both homes; it’s a way of assuring them that it’s okay to have a life and healthy relationship with both parents.

Follow the tips above when arranging visitation schedules and child custody on your first summer since the divorce. When you need advice, talk to a family law or divorce attorney at Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. Based in Lake St Louis, MO, their attorneys provide outstanding legal counsel to clients throughout St. Charles County. Call (636) 561-5599 to schedule an initial consultation, or visit their website to learn more about their services.