8 Tips for Co-Parenting This Summer~ 3 min read

As the temperatures rise and the school bells ring their final chime, summer heralds a season of change for co-parents. Whether you are a seasoned pro or new to the co-parenting game, ensuring a harmonious summer for you, your ex, and most importantly, your children, requires careful planning and communication. Here are 8 essential tips to help you move through the summer months with ease:

1. Sync Your Schedules Early: The key to a successful summer co-parenting arrangement lies in knowing and agreeing upon your schedules well in advance. Establish clear start and end dates for the summer schedule, including any deviations from the regular routine. Confirm these details with the other parent to avoid last-minute conflicts.
2. Flexibility Is Key: Summer brings a myriad of events and activities, from family vacations to special occasions. Embrace flexibility by allowing for one-time changes to the schedule when necessary. Whether it’s a graduation ceremony or a dance recital, prioritize your child’s significant events by accommodating schedule adjustments.
3. Plan Vacations Early: Don’t leave vacation planning to the last minute. Discuss and finalize vacation plans, including dates, times, and destinations, well in advance. You should both be aware of the vacation details to prevent misunderstandings or conflicts later.
4. Communication Is Crucial: Open and honest communication is the cornerstone of successful co-parenting, especially during the summer months. Discuss childcare arrangements, including camps or daycare.  For older children staying home alone, establish clear guidelines and rules to ensure their safety and well-being.
5. Facilitate Child-Parent Communication: Encourage and facilitate communication between your child and their other parent, especially during extended periods apart. Provide means for regular contact, whether it’s through phone calls, video chats, or messaging apps. Ensure that both parents are able to prioritize maintaining a strong connection with their child, even when physically apart.
6. Prepare for International Travel: If international travel is on the agenda, be proactive in addressing any potential issues or concerns. Notify the other parent well in advance, especially regarding travel dates, destinations, and passport arrangements. Address any safety or security concerns collaboratively to alleviate anxieties and ensure a smooth travel experience for your child.
7. Stay Tech-Savvy: In today’s digital age, access to communication tools is easier than ever. If your child is traveling without internet access, make necessary arrangements, such as purchasing a temporary Wi-Fi plan, to facilitate communication with the other parent. Prioritize your child’s ability to stay connected to both parents, even during remote adventures.
8. Respect Their Experiences: Understand that when your child is with the other parent, they may be fully engaged in new and exciting experiences. Avoid pressuring them to constantly communicate or share details about their time away. Allow them to fully immerse themselves in their summer adventures and trust that they will share stories and memories with you when they return.

By following these summer co-parenting tips, you can navigate the season with confidence and create lasting memories for your child. Remember, cooperation and communication are the cornerstones of successful co-parenting, ensuring that every summer is filled with warmth, joy, and cherished moments for your family.

Contact Family Ally

If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding co-parenting, divorce or any other family law matter, please contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation. Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.