Divorcing parents in Maricopa County often have a challenging time adapting to a new co-parenting relationship. As children move back and forth between parents’ homes, some of the changes and disruption can be mitigated by the continuity of their educational schedules. When the summer months come around, co-parenting can require new adjustments so that children continue to enjoy a relaxed, fun summer without unnecessary tension between their parents.
In the first place, communication is nearly always important to successful co-parenting after divorce. The same is true during the summer. The earlier in advance that each parent can communicate about changes to the parenting schedule, vacations or other plans, the greater the likelihood of a successful summer. In addition, a shared online or visual calendar posted in both homes can be important to ensure that planning takes all of a child’s time and plans into account. Disputes over co-parenting issues can be emotionally taxing, but it is also important that the children do not feel as if they need to choose sides against one parent. Absent a situation of neglect or abuse, each parent should be doing everything they can to encourage a positive relationship with the other parent.
The summer can also be an important time to revisit parenting plans and visitation schedules that are already in place. As children age, they have their own plans with activities, friends or summer jobs that may be a higher priority to accommodate rather than sticking strictly to the schedule. Flexibility can be key to co-parenting success, particularly during the summertime.
When parents think about divorce, they may be concerned most with how their children will be affected and protecting their parent-child bond. A family law attorney might help a divorcing spouse work to achieve a fair agreement on child custody and visitation.