Summer should be about sunshine and smiles—but if you’re co-parenting, it can also mean shifting schedules, travel logistics, and unexpected curveballs. At Wolf & Shore Law Group, we know that summer break doesn’t always feel like a vacation when you’re navigating parenting time after a divorce. That’s why we’re offering some fresh insights to help make this summer smoother for you and your children.
1. Plan Like a Pro—but Stay Flexible
You may have your entire summer mapped out by April—but life rarely sticks to the plan. Summer storms cancel camps. Kids get invited to spontaneous sleepovers. Grandparents book beach houses with little notice. While you should aim for a detailed summer schedule that’s consistent with your parenting plan, it’s just as important to build in flexibility. Communicate early and often—and remember that compromise now can pay off when you’re the one asking for a change later.
2. Think Beyond the Calendar
Summer parenting time isn’t just about when your child is with each parent—it’s about how that time is spent. You and your co-parent may have different philosophies on screen time, sleepovers, or even sunscreen. If your parenting plan doesn’t already address summer-specific issues, it might be time to revisit it—especially if your child is getting older and their summer needs are changing. We can help you modify your current plan so it works better for your family.
3. Travel Smarter, Not Harder
Summer travel is exciting, but it can also be a source of tension. Make sure to give proper notice for out-of-state trips and keep communication open. Share itineraries, confirm transportation logistics, and make sure you’re following the terms in your parenting agreement. Need to update your agreement to reflect your child’s new passport, sports travel, or extended family vacations? We can help with that too.
4. Don’t Forget the Emotional Side
Transitions can be harder in summer when routines are looser and expectations vary. If your child is suddenly anxious about going to camp from one home but not the other, or expressing a desire to spend more time in one household, it might signal a need for a deeper conversation—or even a review of your custody arrangement. Summer provides a unique window into how parenting plans are actually working.
5. Make Room for New Traditions
Summer is also a great time to create new traditions as a co-parenting family. Maybe that means celebrating the Fourth of July on alternating years, or starting a “Back to School Countdown” during your parenting time. These moments can help your child feel grounded and supported—even across two households.
At Wolf & Shore Law Group, we believe that parenting plans shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all—especially during the most dynamic season of the year. If your summer isn’t going as smoothly as you’d hoped, or if you’re already thinking ahead to next year, contact us to schedule a consultation. Let us help you craft a plan that works as well in the sunshine as it does during the school year. Our team is here to help you navigate the legal process with confidence, ensuring you stay focused on what truly matters—your family. Ever Argue with a Woman? Contact us at 203.745.3151 or info@wolfandshorelaw.com.