You are divorced, you’ve “lost” your spouse (and babysitter!) and you’re dealing with kids at home during the summer (or at least living in your home for part of the time). Yes, it is a summer of no love and you aren’t loving it. How can you make sure you are getting your fair share in child custody payments, time spent with your kids and free time for yourself?
First, consider hiring a qualified divorce attorney who specializes in family law and Spousal & Child Support. Family law lawyers understand summer can be a very challenging time for divorced families, parents and kids. They are experts at understanding the complex Spousal and Child Support Calculator as well as how to negotiate time spent with your kids as well as your free time to enjoy summer by yourself.
Most parents choose to share, divide or alternate their parental duties during summer. Remember, children are seeking certainty and consistency. While life can be uncertain and schedules can change quickly, it’s important to make sure your children know they are loved no matter what happens.
Dividing works best when parents live close together. By dividing the day into mornings, afternoons and evenings, co-parents can best work out parental duties including play dates and driving to day camps, sitters, friends and the pool.
For parents who live farther away, sharing may be the best option. Co-parents may need to schedule the entire summer on a calendar and find ways to share the parental burdens for several days, weeks or even months at a time. Sharing is sometimes best for younger children who need consistency most of all.
Alternating can benefit co-parents who live close, yet not too far. Yes, some parents find it easier to take the “one week on, one week off” approach. That is, the kids stay at your place one week and your ex-spouse’s place the next week. The alternating co-parenting strategy is great for parents who are seeking some relaxing vacation time in summer with no daily parenting responsibilities (for seven days at least).
What about vacations? There again, a family law lawyer can help you put together a child custody plan that includes annual family vacations as well as solo summer getaways. Need more information about parenting and divorce? See our California Divorce Guide