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Spring Break Custody Tips for Divorced Parents

Baltimore Child Custody Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Support Divorced Parents Facing Custody Issues.

Children anticipate their spring break vacation each year, but it can be difficult for divorced parents who disagree on how that time will be spent. The key is to put the children’s best interests first. Advance planning can help with this. Listed below are some tips for divorced parents.

Follow the Parenting Plan

Divorced parents often have a parenting plan in place with specifications for vacation time. This should be followed closely, but there may be some flexibility if the parents can agree. Otherwise, stick to what is in writing to avoid conflicts.

Ask your children what they would like to do during spring break and listen to them. You might want to fly them out of state to visit their grandparents, but the parenting plan might indicate otherwise. If you cannot make the trip at this time, plan to do it another month, or ask the grandparents to visit you instead.

Plan a Vacation in Advance

If the parenting plan allows you custody during spring break and you want to take your children on a vacation, plan well in advance. Do not book anything until you speak with the other parent because there might be objections. Setting up an itinerary and sharing it with them beforehand shows that you respect their feelings and allows them some control over what their children will be doing.

The same holds true if your ex-spouse wants to take your children on vacation; listen to them and go over the itinerary. Your parenting plan might have stipulations for taking the children out of state, so remember to check.

It is important for children to have good relationships with both parents. If you cannot afford to take them on a trip, plan a “staycation” instead. These can provide wonderful bonding experiences.

Check Work Schedules

Parents who cannot take off from work for spring break often need to set up childcare and activities for their children when school is closed. This may also be set up in advance with a parenting plan, but schedules can change. It is critical to have open communication with the other parent. To help with this, there are parenting apps with shareable schedules, spring break camps, and other helpful resources.

It is still possible to take advantage of spring break by arranging more quality time with your children, even if you have to work. Set up a picnic in the park or take them to a weeknight movie.

Baltimore Child Custody Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Support Divorced Parents Facing Custody Issues

If your children’s spring break is turning into a custody disagreement, speak with our skilled Baltimore child custody lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC. Complete our online form or call us at 443-589-0150 to schedule a free consultation. Located in Hunt Valley and Towson, Maryland, we serve clients in Baltimore, Baltimore County, Bel Air, Bentley Springs, Columbia, Freeland, Hereford, Hampton, Westminster, Essex, Monkton, Sparks Glencoe, Parkton, Phoenix, Pikesville, White Hall, Carroll County, Harford County, and Howard County.

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