As the end of the school year rapidly approaches, parents are faced with planning visitation and timeshare that is appropriate for their children’s summer break. Here are three Do’s and two Don’ts to consider when designing your summer visitation:
Do come up with specific dates and times for exchanging the children.
This assists both the parents and the children in determining specific events that will take place during the summer. Such planning will also minimize the likelihood of conflict.
Do provide accurate addresses and phone numbers for the locations where you will be spending your summer vacation time. Don’t presume the other parent knows the addresses of family or friends at your planned travel destinations.
Do get permission for out of state or international travel. If you intend to take a trip with the children out the state or country, it is essential that you get written permission from the other parent and if necessary, court orders to establish the arrangement. Failure to have those written agreements or court orders in place can ruin a vacation where the children’s travel might be barred. This type of information can be a requirement on cruise ships. Don’t forget the need to have up-to-date children’s passports as well.
Don’t make promises you can’t keep to the children. If you indicated that you are going to take them on a specific outing and then cancel at the last minute, this behavior will harm the trust level between you and your children.
Don’t argue with your ex about unresolved parenting issues in front of the children. If you anticipate unpleasant exchanges with your ex, make arrangements to pick up and deliver the children at a time and place that will avoid negative contact.
These simple Do’s and Don’ts will help everyone have a pleasant summer holiday season.
