Summer vacation should be a relaxing time. But for divorced couples with kids, it can be stressful. When kids are out of school, parenting roles may get switched around. The parent who normally has primary custody may be anxious about not seeing their children much over the summer. Tensions can be exacerbated by the change in routine, because it requires divorced parents to communicate and interact with each other more often.
Whether you are the parent with a summer empty nest, or the parent with increased custodial responsibility, there are a few things you can do to keep things running smoothly.
Actions to Ease the Transition
- Plan in advance, down to every detail. Although it is important to stay flexible, having a plan for your child over the summer can help ease anxiety and conflict. Know where your child will be when your ex-spouse is at work, and be sure to have their contact information in case of an emergency. Work out with your ex in advance who will be paying for each of the kids’ activities and vacation.
- Stay in touch with your kids in creative ways. Many parents opt to use Skype or Facetime to chat with their kids often, though it is important to give the non-custodial parent time alone with the kids. Do not go overboard. Try writing them a letter, as young kids love getting letters, care packages, and post cards.
- Encourage your child to keep a journal about their summer activities. Remember that kids feel the stress if their parents feel it. Encourage them to enjoy their vacation.
- Give your kids a trinket box to fill with memories and souvenirs from their summer with their non-custodial parent.
- Allow your kids to bring their favorite toys and items with them to their non-custodial parent’s house for the summer. If it is a large item (like a gaming console) it is probably best to coordinate such with the non-custodial parent.
Avoid Conflict and Conflicted Emotions
- Though it is easier said than done, if you are control-oriented, try to trust that your ex will do a great job with the kids because he or she loves them just as much as you do.
- Talk to your kids about what is going on, tell them you will miss them, but do not dwell on negatives like how hard it will be on you. Remind them that their other parent is excited to spend time with them. Keep this about them and their summer, not you and yours.
- Enjoy your downtime! Child free time is an opportunity to recharge. Plan in advance how you want to spend it so you can make the most of it.
Summer vacation is the greatest time of the year for most children. Try to make the most of it and do not let the little things get you down. There are steps you can take to avoid conflict, and ease your anxiety about being away from your kids.
Contact the Baltimore County Child Custody Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC for Excellent Representation
If you are considering a divorce or have questions about child custody and would like to speak to an experienced Baltimore County child custody lawyer at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC call us today at 443-589-0150 or submit an online inquiry form for a free consultation. Our offices are conveniently located in Towson and Hunt Valley, Maryland to serve clients throughout the state including the communities of Cockeysville, Lutherville Timonium, Upper Falls, Phoenix, Riderwood, Sparks Glencoe, Brooklandville, Butler, Stevenson, Glyndon, Monkton, Reisterstown, Pikesville, Owings Mills, Parkville, Boring, Glen Arm, Baldwin, Upperco, and Hyde.