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Taking the Kids on a Vacation This Summer? Don’t Forget to Let Your Ex Know

| May 4, 2021 | Family Law

2020 was an extremely tough year. If the stress of the pandemic and everything else was the final straw in your marriage, you’re certainly not alone. Right now, you’re probably entering the first summer of your life as a co-parent. And, as you probably know by now, everything is just a little more complicated than it used to be. This summer will be no exception.

With a little planning and a slight mindset shift, you can still pull off an enjoyable vacation with your kids. Hint: it’s all about communication and, occasionally, being the bigger person.

Tip No. 1: Start planning as soon as you can. When it comes to making plans as a co-parent, there’s really no such thing as too early. Your ex will probably appreciate your proactively reaching out about a vacation. Depending on where you’re going, you might need written permission from your kids’ other parent before going on a trip (this usually applies to out-of-state or out-of-country excursions). It’s also good to look back over your parenting plan and see what it says about time-sharing during the summer.

Tip No. 2: Involve your kids in the planning phase as much as possible. This summer is a time to start new traditions. The more you involve everyone else in the planning process, the more the memories will mean to you later on. Transparency goes a long way toward making the entire summer a better one for you, your kids, and even your ex.

Tip No. 3: Be prepared to make concessions with your ex. It would be great if you’re able to take your vacation during the days you want. If a really important event that your kids have with your ex conflicts with the vacation, though, don’t immediately dig in your heels. See if there’s a way to make everyone happy. Even if you don’t think it makes a difference in your overall co-parenting relationship, compromising does help smooth things over.

Tip No. 4: Have your kids contact your ex during the trip. This is just a nice gesture. While you can, and should, concentrate on having a fantastic and memorable trip with your children, don’t forget that they want to share neat things about the trip with their other parent. Video calls are especially courteous, but even a phone call or email can go a long way if you don’t have reliable internet access on your vacation.

Tip No. 5: Don’t try to “out-do” your ex. Too many co-parents try to compete with each other when it comes to summer vacations. They (falsely) believe that their kids will love them more than the other parent if they bring the kids to Disney World and everywhere else the kids have dreamed of going. You need to resist the urge. Even the most extravagant material things pale in comparison to genuine quality time with the people you love most in the world.

Co-Parents Need Legal Help, Too

Rotella & Hernandez knows that the most stressful and emotional part of any divorce is figuring out time-sharing. Our team will provide you with unmatched service during your case and keep you in the loop. Your questions will be answered in a timely manner. Most of all, we will talk with you, understand your case and goals, and work tirelessly for you. Call us at 305-596-3618 to set up a time to speak today.

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