Some Texas co-parents choose to keep the same custody schedule year-round. However, it is common to have a different custody schedule in the summer versus during the school year.
With children out of school in the summer, it generally leaves more time for them to spend with each parent. Additionally, the time off leaves many parents wanting to take vacations with children, which means longer periods of custody are necessary.
How to handle vacation time
Co-parenting during the summer requires advance planning but also flexibility. Plan vacations ahead of time. Court orders often require each parent to notify one another of the dates they plan to take vacation with the children a certain number of weeks ahead of time.
For example, a court order may specify that you must tell your co-parent your proposed vacation dates at least 30 days ahead of time or you forfeit your right to take the vacation that summer.
You and your co-parent can agree on the length of the vacation, but two consecutive weeks are commonly ordered by a court. The idea is to give each parent enough time to enjoy valuable time with the children.
Although it may be difficult to go longer than usual without seeing your children when they are on vacation with your co-parent, this can be remedied with daily contact with the children through phone or video.
Remember that Texas bases custody decisions on the best interest of the children and this is generally defined as substantial and meaningful time with each parent. Daily contact with both parents is generally viewed as being in children’s best interests.
Be flexible when you can
Although careful planning is necessary, be flexible when necessary. For example, if your co-parent provides you with their vacation days 29 days in advance instead of 30, allow them to take the vacation if it will not majorly affect any of your plans.
Children’s summer plans change as they grow older. Each summer comes with new activities and obligations. Maintaining a spirit of flexibility with custody will help your children thrive.
Sometimes despite your good faith efforts, disputes arise. When a substantial change of circumstances requires a change that you cannot resolve, you may need to file a motion to modify custody with the court.
