Summer is the perfect time of year to create memories with your loved ones. Not only is the weather perfect, but schedules are flexible since the school year has come to an end. If you are a divorced parent of school-aged children, it can be hard to forgo family traditions and quality time that you’ve grown to love during the summer months.
Tips to Handle Summer Separation
In most custody cases, it is common for children to split their time with both parents during the summer, which means that you might have a quiet house for a time. The way you handle the situation is important for you, the children, and the other parent. Here are a few tips to help you handle the situation:
1. Maintain communication with the children: Just because your children are with the other parent, it doesn’t mean that you are cut off from communication. It can be helpful to have regular phone conversations or FaceTime appointments to ease the child’s anxiety and give you peace of mind.
2. Stay busy whenever possible: The highest levels of worry and anxiety can set in when there is nothing to do. Not only is it smart to pack the kid’s schedule so they have an enjoyable summer, but look for ways that you can also stay busy while they are gone. Too much spare time can result in feelings of loneliness and stress.
3. Follow the custody agreement: One important element in the divorce proceedings is determining child custody arrangements. This agreement outlines the amount of time the children spend with each parent, including summer break. If there is a question about this shared time, then always refer to the custody agreement to sort through disagreements. If necessary, you might need to talk to an attorney if the other parent isn’t honoring this agreement.
Our pro team at Miles & Hatcher, LLP is here to offer the support you need in managing child custody issues. Whether you are designing a new custody plan or you need advice about upholding the current agreement, we’re happy to assist. For more information, talk to us for a free consultation: (909) 481-4080.