Even for parents who get along well, parenting schedules can be challenging if you co-parent. When children are away from school for the summer, navigating the logistics of “kid exchanges” and fair hours for both caregivers becomes even more challenging. How might custody disputes over the summer break be resolved more peacefully? Do not hesitate to contact a gig harbor family law attorney if you need assistance.
The fact that Washington courts do not want to get too engaged in routine custody disputes is good and bad news. Co-parents must therefore resolve issues on their own. In principle, if both parents are willing, they can change the parenting arrangement to suit their requirements. Co-parents typically run into trouble regarding “agreeing,” though.
Before you make any decision, make sure to think from your children’s point of view. You need to keep your children a priority so that your and your ex-partner’s decision does not impact them in any negative way.
Here are some suggestions for settling visiting disputes during the summer.
If you and your ex-partner get into a dispute during co-parenting, here are a few tips to help you overcome them.
- Begin early.
The best strategy to lessen disagreement over summertime plans is to plan beforehand. You and your co-parent should review your calendars in January and communicate via emails (or other written documents) about your goals for the vacation and the rest of the following year.
- Be imaginative.
Think about how your kids will spend the majority of their time this summer. Will maintaining the current custody exchange schedule be satisfactory, or is it preferable to change it? If your children enjoy camps or other away-from-home activities, you can think about exchanging once every two weeks or once a week.
- List the things you want to accomplish this year.
Your most significant upcoming plans should be recorded in writing (and your child’s). This should cover both continuing customs and one-time or unique occasions.
- Negotiate.
If you are determined to take your children to Disneyland and need a few extra summer custody days, consider extending your co-visiting parent’s rights over fall break.
- Get support.
If you are having trouble coming to an agreement, a third party who is impartial, such as a counselor, mediator, or religious counselor, might be able to help. Remember, it is crucial to seek help from a professional who can assist you in the right ways.
