When you’re a divorced parent, spring break can be a time of stress, especially if you and your co-parent are navigating it for the first time. If you and your partner have consciously uncoupled, you may find it helpful to spend the week somewhere with the whole family. On the other hand, if work or cooperation is an issue, splitting time between co-parents can also help to keep things stable. Whether you plan to take a trip with your family or just hang out at home, here are a few strategies to help you handle the spring break holiday.

Stick to the Calendar

In order to be prepared for the quality time you’ll be spending with your kids without stepping on your co-parent’s toes, you have to know when you will be needed. That means you have to be aware of when the break from school starts and ends. Just because spring break was the first week in April last year doesn’t mean it will be the same this year. Check with your kids’ school by looking on their website or giving them a call. If break starts on Monday and falls on one of your weeks with the kids, you may have to pick them up from school on Friday, depending on your custody agreement. If you are unsure of what your agreement says, speak to your attorney or your co-parent to coordinate when the kids will be under your care.

Create a Game Plan

Once you have figured out your schedule, you need to start creating a game plan for the week. Juggling work with parenting responsibilities, especially if your kids are too young to be on their own, requires foresight and flexibility. If you can, take some time off to catch up with your children. Because they are used to the structure that school provides during the day, you may need to come up with some activities to keep them busy. Ask them if there’s anything they would like to do during your time together. If they choose the activities you will be doing for the week of break, then they are more likely to be engaged in them.

Make It Memorable

Before you know it, your kids will be out of the house and on their own. That’s why every second you get to spend with them during their formative years matters. Whatever you decide to do for spring break, make it about the kids as much as possible. Coordinate with your co-parent, whether you’re taking turns with the kids or spending time with them together.

Spring break should be fun, not stressful. The more planning you do on your own and with your co-parent, the more relaxed you and your family can be. If you need help creating a plan with your co-parent, you should contact an experienced attorney. At AM Law, our team has the know-how and training to help you and your kids have the spring break you deserve. Call us today.

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