With summer here, parents who went through a divorce recently and are used to their standard possession schedules must now learn how to navigate a summer possession schedule to accommodate the kids staying with the other parent longer. For example, maybe you agreed for the kiddos to go on a long camping trip with their father. On the one hand, you want to encourage them to have fun with their dad. But you also want your time, too, and can’t help but wonder how you’ll survive the summer alone.
While the time away from your kids is usually only a few extra weeks, it’s understandable to have these feelings. Many parents face this dilemma every year with summer possession schedules and learn that it’s best to have a plan.
Here are 4 ways to survive the summer when your ex-spouse has the kids
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Surround yourself with friends and family
Being a good parent takes time and hard work, and sometimes that means not having enough opportunities to spend quality time with friends and family you used to see and laugh with every day. Use this summer to reconnect, whether it’s a small dinner at the house, a night out on the town, or a weekend getaway to the beach. Who knows … some of your friends may be in the same boat with their extended summer possession schedule and could use some time away.
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Don’t dwell on the negative
The divorce was rough on everyone, so it is good that your kids can still have a sense of normalcy in their life. Let them know you’ll be fine and that you can’t wait to hear all their fun stories when they return. And after they are officially out of the house, refuse to let their absence get you down. Remind yourself that they’ll be back home before you know it.
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Review your summer possession schedule
This is a perfect opportunity to refresh yourself with the rules of your summer possession schedule and look for ways to plan your own vacation with the kids without violating the existing order. Whether those plans are for this summer, during the holidays, or next year, the time away from your kids now allows you to have a clearer head as you plan for the future.
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Don’t be afraid to check in
If your ex-spouse is also a willing participant in your existing co-parenting relationship, they shouldn’t mind if you reasonably check in by phone or Zoom occasionally with the kids. Many orders even plan for this. Just hearing their voices and listening to them share stories about all their adventures provides just enough of a “fix” to get you through until they return. Remember to stay positive and engage in their excitement.
Please call Christman Attorneys, PLLC, for your legal needs today!
Please consult an attorney for advice about your individual child custody situation. The material on this website and in this or any blog article we publish are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. The attorneys at Christman Attorneys, PLLC, believe in tailoring legal advice and solutions to your own personal circumstances.
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