Newly divorced Texas parents must get used to co-parenting and splitting time with their children. When you are negotiating your custody agreement, you will need to address how custody will work during special times of the year, such as summer.
You and your co-parent may share custody during the school year, but that can become challenging if one parent has a more flexible schedule or you do not live close to each other.
A typical summer custody schedule
Some parents agree that one parent has primary custody during the school year, and both parents share custody during the summer.
Additionally, your summer custody schedule could allow both of you a longer period with the children, such as two weeks, for purposes of a summer vacation.
The summer also contains two long holiday weekends, Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend. It is common for parents to split this weekend, with one parent having Memorial Day weekend and the other Labor Day weekend.
This schedule is often in the best interest of the child, which is the legal standard Texas uses when making custody determinations.
Staying close over the summer
However, the transition from living primarily with one parent to spending an equal amount of time with both parents in the summer can be tough for children. It can also be difficult on you if you are the primary school year parent, as you must adapt to having longer lengths of time without your child.
Remember that each custody situation is unique, and you and your co-parent are always free to agree on whatever schedule works for you. If you decide to change the schedule from your custody order, get any changes in writing, to prevent future conflict or confusion.
Find ways for each parent to stay in touch with the children during the longer times away in the summer. Consider a daily phone or video call.
Finding the best summer schedule for you depends on your situation. A family law attorney can provide guidance.
