Summer is the perfect time for you and your loved ones to get together and enjoy that beautiful weather, especially when your children are on their summer break. When parents get divorced or separated, it is important to set guidelines that allow for each parent to enjoy this time off with their children. Here are some important things to consider when negotiating your summertime parenting schedule.

The Distance Between Each Parent’s Residence

If you live a considerable distance away from your ex, your children are likely to spend the majority of their time with the parent who lives closest to their school. Since children are not in school during the summer, this time of the year can be the perfect opportunity for parents who don’t have as much parenting time to create exciting new experiences with their children. There is an opportunity to give that parent extended time with their children that they wouldn’t normally have during the school year, reducing the back-and-forth travel, which can make travel a little easier for everyone involved. 

Each Parent’s Work Schedule

As much as we might wish, most parents don’t have the luxury of extended leave during the summer months like their children do. That leaves most parents with limited options for childcare during the summer, but you can always get creative! Some families work out a system that gives parenting time on each parent’s respective days off, which allows that parent the opportunity to enjoy time with their children that they otherwise would not have during the school year. Creating an alternate summer-time parenting schedule that allows each parent time with their children during their respective days off will not only bring more joy to their summer, but can also help save on childcare costs.

Extended Vacations

Many parents may worry that they can no longer take long family vacations with their children after a divorce or separation now that parenting time needs to be split. However, that is certainly not the case. It is not uncommon for summer parenting time agreements to include provisions that allow for parents to each take an extended vacation with their children for an agreed-upon number of days, so long as proper notification and an itinerary is given. You can even make this a staycation if you prefer!

Your Children’s Schedules

Don’t forget, summer is an important time for children to do activities they love, attend camps, and see their friends. When planning your summer vacation time, make sure that whatever the parenting time division may be, your children still have time to just be kids and enjoy their summer, too.

Creating a summer parenting time schedule doesn’t have to be hard. With the right attorney, you can negotiate a summer parenting time schedule that fits your family’s needs. If you have questions about creating a summer parenting time schedule, call Greenberg & Sinkovits at (312) 905-3013 for a free consultation. Our attorneys are ready to help you create fun and lasting summer memories with your children for years to come.