Many Pennsylvania parents get a bit stressed out when the school year begins to wind down, and they must think ahead to their summer plans. For parents who work full time outside the home, finding safe, affordable ways to occupy their kids for summer can be quite challenging. In cases of divorce, it can be even more stressful, especially if parents neglect to incorporate specific summer time terms into their co-parenting plans.
There are several ways to keep stress levels to a minimum during summer months. Many of these ideas are applicable for custodial parents as well as those who are spending time with their kids via a visitation schedule. What’s most important, of course, is to keep children’s best interests in mind and to be willing to cooperate as co-parents so that the needs of all involved are fulfilled.
Parents will want to discuss their goals before implementing a plan. For instance, one parent may consider it a high priority that the kids have educational opportunities throughout the summer months. A co-parent might want to emphasize time with extended family or make sure the kids get to take a vacation. Children are highly adaptable, so even if it is the first post-divorce summer in a particular household, they will likely be able to cope as long as their parents are willing to cooperate and compromise with each other as needed.
Parents who divorce do well to allow room for spontaneity on both sides of the equation. If a co-parent refuses to be flexible or outright disobeys an existing court order, it cannot only ruin summer vacation, but can spark serious legal problems as well. Such problems are often more easily overcome by seeking guidance and support from an experienced Pennsylvania family law attorney.